"McClaren could be swayed"
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ByEurosport
Published 23/04/2006 at 14:50 GMT
FA Cup glory could tempt Middlesbrough boss Steve McClaren to snub England, according to former defender Curtis Fleming. The 37-year-old starred in Middlesbrough's double cup final defeats in 1997, and believes that victory against West Ham on Sunday coul
FOOTBALL 2005-2006 Premiership - Middlesbrough - Steve McClaren
Image credit: Imago
The Teessiders go into the match on the back of a 1-0 semi-final first leg defeat to Steaua Bucharest in the UEFA Cup, but Fleming believes any route into Europe next season could be the deciding factor.
"People have been saying 'Which do you think is bigger, the FA Cup or the UEFA Cup?' he said. "It's just important that Middlesbrough get into Europe next season.
"They are not going to get there through the league, and the cup competitions give them a great chance.
"All the lads have tasted it now and the lads whose contracts are up, it may sway them - and it might sway Steve McClaren if England come knocking at the door.
"It's a big week for the whole club."
But Middlesbrough will be without the services of captain Gareth Southgate, who missed the midweek UEFA Cup clash with an ankle injury, while striker Mark Viduka is still recovering from a thigh strain.
Hammers boss Alan Pardew has been boosted by Anton Ferdinand's recovery from a hip problem, while Danny Gabbidon will return after shaking off a groin injury.
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