England-Croatia: No Easy Task for the Three Lions

They say one man’s failure is another man’s fortune.

For the English national football team, that saying couldn't be more true.

After falling in Moscow last month, England's Euro 2008 destiny was completely out of their hands. Critics called for manager Steve McClaren to be fired—and even the team's opponents joined in on the catcalls.

"England have a team of big stars who earn an awful lot of money from playing with their private deals," said Russian striker Alexander Kerzhakov before a Saturday match with Israel.

"Russia have a compact group of players who don't have anywhere near as much money, but with far more hard workers on the field. That's the difference between the countries. That's why we are in a strong position and England have been left just hoping."

Maybe Kerzhakov should have chosen his words more carefully.

Russia's improbable loss in Tel Aviv gave the Three Lions something most teams never get—a second chance.

As it stands, England needs only a draw against Croatia on Wednesday to qualify for the Euro 2008 finals.

That said, McClaren and Co. will have to be wary when they take to the pitch at Wembley next week. Holding off the Croatians will be no easy task.

More than anything, England need to play with passion—an element that was conspicuously absent in an unimpressive Friday friendly against Austria. 

What's more, they'll have to make due without striker Michael Owen, who suffered a thigh injury against Austria that could sideline him for up to a month.

The bottom line: McClaren will have his work cut out for him on Wednesday.

Give the subpar midfield performances of Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard on Friday, one would have to think that Aston Villa midfielder/defender Gareth Barry will play a key role against Croatia.

McClaren may opt to push Gerrard out to the right flank while teaming Lampard and Barry in the middle. David Beckham has done reasonably well in midfield for the Three Lions, but it would be absurd to expect him to be in form after playing only exhibition matches in the last month.

On the bright side, Joleon Lescott looked assertive and steady at the heart of England's defence against Austria. The Everton centre back will be instrumental this week.

It’s no secret that Croatia would love to spoil England’s qualification dreams. It’ll be up to the hosts to silence the boo boys at Wembley and establish their place in Euro 2008.