How to beat Croatia

It's better to be a lucky manager than a good manager, so the saying goes, and Steve McClaren was surely a man counting his blessings last Saturday.

McClaren has a lot to consider ahead of Wednesday's qualifier

Israel's 2-1 win over Russia ensured England's dream of gracing Austria and Switzerland was alive and well again.

And it also means McClaren has one more chance to prove his credentials as a national coach who can inspire his players and tactically out-manoeuvre opposition managers.

England need only draw at home against Croatia now to secure their passage to Euro 2008 and, in doing so, cement McClaren's place as national coach at least until next summer.
Source. Bbc.

England ready to gamble on Carson

England v Croatia
Wembley, London
Wednesday 21 November
Kick-off: 2000 GMT
Coverage: Live on BBC One & BBC Radio 5 Live (commentary on BBC Sport website for UK users only); Coverage on BBC Sport website

Steve McClaren looks set to gamble on goalkeeper Scott Carson and drop David Beckham for England's vital Euro 2008 qualifier against Croatia on Wednesday.

The England boss is believed to have opted for the inexperienced Carson, with Paul Robinson on the bench.

Chelsea winger Shaun Wright-Phillips is tipped to replace Beckham at Wembley.

Gareth Barry and Owen Hargreaves are pushing for recalls in what is expected to be a five-man midfield, with Peter Crouch on his own up front.
Source. Bbc.

British shows scoop Emmy awards

British TV shows have dominated the 35th annual International Emmy Awards in New York.
They won seven out of their eight nominations, and all but one of the British winners were BBC productions.

They included best actor for Jim Broadbent in The Street, which also won best drama series, and best comedy for Little Britain Abroad.

Former US vice-president Al Gore also received an honorary award to recognise his work in broadcasting.
Source. Bbc.