McClaren rocked by critics - Venables - Sport in brief

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Assistant boss Venables claims the former Middlesbrough manager has been "rocked by the criticism" after defeat in Russia left England relying on Israel avoiding defeat against Guus Hiddink's side to keep the dream alive of competing in Austria and Switzerland.

"Criticism goes with the territory," he said at the launch of the PFA's Centenary Game. "That maybe hit him (McClaren). When things hit you like that, you are numbed, you are rocked."

Venables added: "I cannot stand up and say it has been brilliant from day one because it hasn't.

"There are no favours from anyone so when things are hot and problematic you have got to keep a cool head.

"But we have been playing some good football that players and supporters have been enjoying.

"We just did not win the game we wanted (against Russia) and it is in the lap of the gods to see if we get another opportunity.

"I do not like it when someone else has to do us a favour but what I do know is that Israel have a good home record," he said.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Venables insisted McClaren deserves more time: "I think Steve knows himself we were a little bit late starting off, but we got there - we were a fraction away.

"I do believe the improvement is worth a little more patience. You don't tear the paper up and start all over again. You say 'we're on to something here - let's pursue this and not start all over again and have another trek to look for someone else who has to start again as well.' Have some belief."