Just ahead of England's friendly with Spain on Wednesday, Steve McClaren looked to get one step ahead of the criticism he will surely endure, win or lose.

While Spain manager Luis Aragones spoke to the importance of winning the match, McClaren was quoted as saying, "I don't see it as make or break for me."

Whether his quote was for the FA, the supporters, or both, is unclear.

But what is not unclear is the under-fire manager's motives.

An England win, of any kind, will take him off the rack until March when Euro 2008 Qualifying resumes.

But a draw or a loss, particularly a convincing one, would surely have the once supportive FA pondering the unthinkable: no England at Euro 2008.

No matter the outcome of tomorrow's friendly, a loss in Israel in March would surely be McClaren's final undoing, but today's comment reveals his desire to keep the wolves at bay for at least six more weeks.

The only real question is whether or not the FA is numbered among those howling just outside the door.

More from other web sites (in a new window):
England, Spain coaches under pressure - FoxSoccer.com AP

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