Barwick backing McClaren

Football Association chief executive Brian Barwick has given his full backing to England coach Steve McClaren.

McClaren has come under mounting pressure with England sitting fourth in Group E of their Euro 2008 qualifying group ahead of a crucial showdown with Estonia on June 6.

“I don’t know when there’s not a vital time for England. It comes with the territory,” Barwick told Radio Five Live’s Sportsweek.

“We understand this. These are key games. Steve knows that, we all know that and we’re looking forward to them.

“We’re very positive about qualification about for Euro 2008. We’re on a little bit of a journey.

“Steve McClaren is our man – I back him and I look forward to him helping England qualify for Euro 2008.

“We’re looking forward to England getting back on the pitch with four of the last five games staged at Wembley. Steve is the man charge of the team.”