'Bad memories' spur Beckham

David Beckham warned today that there would be no excuses should England fail against Croatia on Monday but added that their disappointing experience at UEFA EURO 2000™ would help ensure that they rose to the challenge.

Draw enough
A draw at the Estádio da Luz will be enough for England to book a quarter-final place, though it was exactly the same scenario four years ago in the Low Countries. A loss in the opening fixture was followed by a victory leaving them needing just a point against Romania. Defeat in Charleroi then ensured England went home early.

Mistakes
"We have been in this situation before," Beckham recalled, "when we only needed a draw. We made mistakes and lost the game and were out. We beat Germany [in the second game] and everyone was so happy, they thought we were through but I remember Gary Neville going round the team saying, 'This is not over yet'.

'Bad memories'
"Unfortunately, we did not play as well against Romania and they knocked us out. They are bad memories and we can't let that happen again. This time we have to stay strong because there will be no excuses. The kick-off time [19.45] is right for us, it's a great stadium to play in and we are all looking forward to it. This time we won't be complacent."

Four missing
Sven-Göran Eriksson was without four players as the squad returned to training this morning after Thursday's victory over Switzerland. Paul Scholes is still feeling the effects of a sore ankle, while Steven Gerrard and Sol Campbell have blisters. In addition, Owen Hargreaves had an upset stomach but none are so serious as to make them doubtful for Monday's game.

Rooney in spotlight
For once the England captain can enjoy a dimming of the relentless spotlight that follows him while Wayne Rooney continues as the focus of attention in the England camp following his two-goal performance against the Swiss. The 18-year-old is on a yellow card and runs the risk of missing a potential quarter-final tie but Beckham said it was important Rooney forgets that and concentrates on what he does best.

Beckham confident
"Of course it's important he does not get another yellow card but I'm sure the manager will tell him not to worry about it," said Beckham. "Wayne has shown his strength in the games so far and I'm sure he will show the same in the next game."