McClaren just another Yes man as he snubs Wigan's Baines
Posted by liam_wafc in EURO 2008, England, Wigan | 10 November 2006
The latest England squad proves without a fact that Steve McClaren, like his predecessor Sven Goran Errikson, is just another yes man, as he fails to call up players from 'lesser' clubs who are more deserving of an England chance.
Along with Wigan Athletic left back Leighton Baines (more on this shortly) Steve McClaren has snubbed Aston Villas in form left-sided midfielder Gareth Barry and Bolton's skipper Kevin Nolan in favour of Stewart Downing (a player who used to paly under McClaren) and Tottenham's Jermain Jenas.
The news that Leighton Baines has been snubbed is even more annoying due to the fact that regular left-back Ashley Cole is suspended for England's next Euro 2008 qualifier next year in Israel. Yet instead of giving youth a chance (something McClaren vowed to do) McClaren looks set to plump for Wayne Bridge, a player who hasn't played for Chelsea all season.
The snub shouldn't really be such a big surprise, McClaren has proved that unlike what he has earlier preached, he is very reluctant to pick players from less fashionable clubs. Yes he called up Micah Richards, but if he ends up playing at left-back, that would be insulting to other left-backs like Baines and West Hams Konchesky.
McClaren has dissapointed, it looks like the Sven Regime is still going strong, but with a different man as the front.
Comments
Nice one Liam, keep up the good work son!
Unfortunately I'm not suprised. Beckham scored last night for Madrid as well, hope that makes his job a little tougher.
Scandalous! Bridge is in the squad and isn't fit to wipe Baines's ......brow.