TEDDY Sheringham believes Sven Goran Eriksson's England have
done an excellent job in qualifying for the World Cup and dismisses
recent critcism of the England boss.
Teddy, who won 51 caps for his country and was part of
Eriksson's squad during England's last World Cup campaign
in 2002, defended the Swede's methods and is delighted that
England have safely secured their spot in Germany next summer.
"We've qualified for the World Cup and you can't knock
Sven or the lads for that," he said. "They've done a
fantastic job. It is not easy to qualify, which shows when you look
at some of the teams that are struggling to make it this time
around.
"There have even been times when England haven't
qualified. Nobody was complaining when we qualified for the last
World Cup and to think the team are sitting there in silence in the
dressing-room is wrong.
"There are always lots of things going on in an England
dressing-room and whether Sven is quiet or not should not be an
issue.
"England manager is a tough job. You are either seen as good
or bad - there's no in between. A lot of the criticism Sven has
been receiving recently is down to media sensationalism.
"You have to look at the whole picture and Sven's record
in qualification is very strong."
Teddy was also quick to praise his Hammers strike-partner Marlon
Harewood, who he believes has all the attributes to force his way
into Sven's plans for the World Cup.
"There are several players here with a good chance of
forcing their way into the England frame and Marlon is one of
them," explained Teddy. "He has more than enough ability
to compete at that level.
"His pace, power and strength are incredible and would be a
huge asset. Marlon would have a lot to offer at international
level."
Teddy Praises England Progress
12th October 2005