McClaren and Publicist Fallout

As the England coaching situation gets more humiliating by the day, England manager Steve McClaren and his publicist, Max Clifford, have ended their working relationship.

Just yesterday, Clifford made no mention of animosity between himself and McClaren. The famous publicist may have caused the under-fire England coach embarrassment when he all but said that Beckham’s being dropped was a PR move while hinting a David Beckham recall might be a possibilty.

McClaren has not kept his dislike of Beckham well hidden and is likely to feel undermined by his publicist’s speculation.

McClaren’s undefined trip to observe American football has now been cancelled, but it seems to be unclear whether McClaren or the English Football Association made the decision.

England Manager Steve McClaren Under Fire

Clifford cuts ties with McClaren – BBC Report (new window)

Related:
England Frustration Growing – 13.10.06
Theo Walcott Goals, England v Germany U21s, 10.10.06
Euro 2008 Results, 11.10.06

Daniele De Rossi Goal, Italy v Georgia, 11.10.06 GOLAZO!

A brilliant 35 yard strike from De Rossi puts the Azzurri up 1 – 0. GOLAZO! GOLAZO! GOLAZO!

Mauro Camoranesi Goal, Italy v Georgia, 11.10.06

A sweet cross and a sweeter header to finish for a Mauro Camoranesi goal and an Italy 2 – 1 lead.

Simone Perrotta Goal, Italy v Georgia, 11.10.06

Great passing ends on Perrotta’s foot in the box and a 3 – 1 Italy win.

England Manager Steve McClaren Under Fire

It may never be known what England manager Steve McClaren was hoping to learn from an American football team, as the FA has cancelled his trip to the U.S.

The FA brain-trust seemingly think combing the Premier League, and possibly the Championship (England’s second division), might be more rewarding.

Adding to McClaren’s woes are the growing numbers calling for the return of un-fancied David Beckham.

The former England captain might do well to distance himself from the sinking ship and wait for the next regime.

England’s next matches are a friendly at the Netherlands on November 15 and at home to Spain on February 7th.

In the unlikely event McClaren clears those two hurdles, he faces a March 24th Euro 08 Qualifying showdown at Israel, who has not lost a competitive match at home in seven years.

Macca under pressure after only five games – FoxSoccer.com AP Report (new window)

Related:
England Frustration Growing – 13.10.06
Theo Walcott Goals, England v Germany U21s, 10.10.06
Euro 2008 Results, 11.10.06