WEDNESDAY'S EURO 2008 QUALIFIERS

England v Croatia

There's little doubt in my mind England will get the result they need and go through to Euro 2008.

In fairness to coach Steve McClaren, he always said it wasn't over until all the games had been played and Israel did England a huge favour by beating Russia at the weekend.

All that means England need only draw and I just don't see Croatia going to Wembley and winning.

I've always been of the opinion that once you've qualified as a team - as Croatia have - the pressure and intensity just isn't there.

Yes, they will want to win at Wembley, but when 50-50 tackles are flying in, there's only one team who will be willing to put their bodies on the line and that's England.

Croatia are a decent team, but they are not a top, top side. England's players won't need too many words or instructions and, as long as the application and attitude is right on the night, it will be enough.

And if and when that happens, you have to conclude it has been a successful campaign.

In my opinion, it was always McClaren's remit to qualify, so if England get through he's done well, simple as that.

I've always been of the opinion that once you've qualified as a team - as Croatia have - the pressure and intensity just isn't there.

Yes, they will want to win at Wembley, but when 50-50 tackles are flying in, there's only one team who will be willing to put their bodies on the line and that's England.