Jim Smith held him in the highest regard when the pair were together at Derby County and Sir Alex Ferguson knew exactly what he was doing when he tempted McClaren to Old Trafford to replace Brian Kidd as Assistant Manager.

Now, after a hugely impressive first season as manager of Middlesbrough, Steve is setting his sights on helping to mastermind England's World Cup charge. The overriding feeling in the camp over the last couple of days has been very much one of: 'the talking and preparing has now been down, so let's get down to business'.

McClaren's mood is no different. "There is a buzz around the hotel at the moment," he confirmed. "There's a lot more talking and chit-chat than there has ever been and people are really looking forward to the matches now. "It's stepped up a gear since we arrived in Japan and the intensity and focus has been apparent. "There's been a lot of work put in over the last couple of weeks and the expectation is now rising because we are ready to get down to the main thing - the match against Sweden.

"McClaren has also been delighted to see the captain return to the fold over the last two days. His relationship with the United boys remains strong and he said: "It's really great that we've got all the players fit again and David [Beckham] has been doing everything in training.
"He hasn't been holding back and looks like he's enjoying life. He should be on course for Sunday.

"Having David back, and with Kieron now also back in training, it has just added that little bit of extra spice."

McClaren clearly believes that England have the players to make an impact in this World Cup - a conviction founded on the youth and talent contained within the squad. "It's a great squad," he said.

"It is young and has yet to peak but there is still a wealth of experience there."

They are now ready for the biggest experience of them all.