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Hiddink impressed
Russia coach Guus Hiddink was impressed with England's last two performances
but insists his side will be gunning for three points on Wednesday
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The veteran boss thought the Three Lions were unfortunate
to lose to Germany in a friendly last month.
However, England found their form to comfortably beat Israel - a team
who held Russia to a 1-1 draw less than 12 months ago.
"I was impressed when I saw the [Germany] game," said Hiddink,
who admitted he admires the attitude of British players. "Although
the result was 1-2 for Germany, England created a lot of chances. They
were not lucky in finishing it off. Germany got two lucky goals but England
were impressive.
"I saw some flashes [of England v Israel], they were dominating clearly.
I know Israel has potential if you let them play. England did a very good
job."
Russia are currently unbeaten in their attempts to qualify for Euro 2008.
Second in Group E with 18 points, one more than England, Hiddink's charges
have conceded just once this campaign.
"I hope to get six points but we have to be realistic," said
Hiddink as he contemplated Russia's two meetings with England.
"Every team wants to win and my teams must always go for the win.
I always like to start a game to win, at the end we will see."
England beat Israel despite being without Wayne Rooney, Frank Lampard,
David Beckham, Gary Neville and Owen Hargreaves while Peter Crouch, with
12 goals in 20 international appearances, was suspended.
Hiddink was not surprised to see their replacements stepping up to the
mark with Shaun Wright-Phillips, Micah Richards, Gareth Barry and Emile
Heskey all earning high praise.
"The substitutes are not really substitutes because they are big
names in English football," the Dutchman added. "They did well
and are super-motivated to do even better. They are doing very well."
Hiddink knows England will offer stubborn resistance but the former Holland
and Australia coach hopes to see the Three Lions qualify.
"I wish England will be there because they are always good to have
at a tournament," he said.
"But realistically you have to consider Croatia because they are
a very experienced side. They do not lose many points."
TheFA.com,
10 September 2007
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