Venables: England won't play for point - Sport in brief - Evening Standard
       

Venables: England won't play for point

England assistant coach Terry Venables has warned against the perils of playing for a draw.

Steve McClaren's men need only a point against Croatia at Wembley on Wednesday night to qualify for Euro 2008, but his right-hand man, and former England boss, says they will aim to win.

"We are fortunate to get a chance, we know that, and we have to take it with both hands. As Steve McClaren has said, we have to go out and win the game," he told The Sun, after Israel's weekend win over Russia handed the advantage back to England.

"Although we only need a draw to go through, I've never believed in playing for one. Yes you have to be cautious at times but if you play for a draw it can breed a negative approach. It's better to take the game to the opposition and keep them on the back foot.

"You might only end up with a draw - which will be okay in our case - but that is better than trying to hang on to what you started with."

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