Barwick backs under-fire McClaren

Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick has defended beleaguered England coach Steve McClaren in the wake of last night’s Euro 2008 win over Andorra.

McClaren suffered some of the worst abuse in living memory from England fans, who called for his instant dismissal, as well as yelling some more unsavoury songs against the former Middlesbrough boss.

Skipper John Terry admitted the chants were ’unhelpful’ and now Barwick, who was in Barcelona’s Olympic Stadium to witness the events unfold, has launched a passionate defence of McClaren.

“I know how hard Steve and everyone connected to the team is working,” said Barwick.

“He is a strong man and I know from speaking with him just how determined he is to deliver success for England.

“I, like everyone else at the FA, will be doing everything I can to help Steve and the team win their next Euro qualifier in Estonia in June.”