VIDEO: Milner pleased for Pearce
By Chris Hatherall
Monday, 27 February, 2012
Midfielder feels caretaker manager has the right credentials.
England midfielder James Milner has paid tribute to England interim manager Stuart Pearce as the team prepare to face Holland in a high-profile international at Wembley on Wednesday.
Manchester City star Milner, who worked under Pearce in the Under-21s where he won a record 46 caps, says spirits are high in the camp ahead of the big game.
Pearce will be in charge of the Senior team for the first time and Milner is confident the legendary Three Lions left-back has the coaching credentials to do well in the role.
He said: "I think a lot of the boys have worked with him before. They worked with him at Under-21 level and a few at club level as well and you go into games very well prepared.
"It is great having someone who has played at the highest level like he has for England - and someone with the passion he played with and the player he was.
"He has done such a good job at Under-21 level and with the record he has had since he has been there."
Milner says if Pearce ends up taking England to the UEFA Euro 2012 Finals he will not let his country down.
"He will know what is required," said the winger. "I've played in two Under-21 tournaments with him, and you go into them and the games feeling very well prepared and ready and raring to go.
"He is a great manager and in the two Under-21 tournaments we were unlucky on both occasions and should have won at least one at them."
Pearce has yet to name his captain to face Holland; and Milner is ignoring speculation he could be among the contenders.
"I've no idea," he said. "That is the decision for him. We have got more than enough leaders in the squad and whoever is named as captain, they are not going to be there on their own. That's what every successful team needs, more than one leader. One player will wear the armband but you need six, seven, eight leaders to be vocal and lead with actions.
Last remaining England v Holland tickets at Wembley are priced at £65, £55, £45. Call the hotline on 0844 826 2010 or visit www.TheFA.com/tickets. Disabled fans can call 0845 458 1966.