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ENGLAND v RUSSIA - TERRY WANTS TO BUILD
England captain John Terry has called on the team to build on their confidence-boosting victory over Israel ahead of a much tougher test in the Euro 2008 qualifier against Russia on Wednesday.
The 3-0 win over Israel on Saturday was a good performance as well as a good result and the Chelsea defender believes that has set them up well for the second crucial clash at Wembley in four days.
"I think we need to lift our game. Russia are a much more organised side and it will be a lot tougher game. We have to rise to the challenge -
we did it at the weekend and we have to do it again," said Terry.
"When the pressure is on we do rise to it and from the word go the other night we put them under pressure early on. If we get something similar again against a good side (Russia) it will stop them playing.
"We have had one good result and one good performance but this is another big test for us and that is why we are up for it.
"The confidence is there and that reassured us at the weekend. We need to maintain that level of consistency throughout the next three (qualifying) games."
The main selection dilemma for manager Steve McClaren rests around whether to bring back Peter Crouch, who was suspended against Israel, or keep faith with Emile Heskey who played well alongside Michael Owen after a long absence from the international side.
"The manager has to make the decision and it is a difficult one. We had some players come in and play well having not played for a while," Terry added.
"I'm sure he will make the right decision."
Terry revealed the team are on a high after getting their first win at the new Wembley.
He added on Sky Sports News: "Gareth Barry came in and was superb. He worked very well with Stevie (Gerrard).
"I thought the fans were fantastic the other night and got right behind us."
The captain dismissed the suggestion the players had extra incentive to beat Russia because they are coached by Guus Hiddink, who was linked with the England job before McClaren was appointed.
He added: "Playing for England is satisfying - no matter who manages the other team. We're desperate to get a win for the boss like we we were the other night."
Terry admitted a win at home was important with a trip to Moscow still to come.
"When you go away to places like Russia they can be a hostile place to go," he added
"But let's wait and get this one out of the way."
By Bettingzone.co.uk
Used with permission.
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