13 October 2004
Steve McClaren exclusive

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McClaren took up the position of England coach on a part-time basis for a second spell during the summer. He successfully juggles his time with the international team and his other job in the hot-seat at the Riverside stadium. 

But rather than getting tired of a busy schedule, McClaren relishes his double life and told TheFA.com's Dan Freedman that it's helping him become a even more accomplished and experienced football coach.

"There's not enough hours in the day at the moment. But I enjoy working, the busier the better," he said. 

"I've got an excellent staff at Middlesbrough who are well able to cope when I come to England.

"I work on the training field, and then we have spare time after so I can do two jobs; keep up to date with Middlesbrough and also make sure that the England side is ok."

He added: "I'm a very fortunate to have good people at both ends who are very good at there jobs."

McClaren enjoys the hands-on role working alongside Sven, a man who "values his opinions", and also believes that he always learns when he's with the Three Lions and the change of scenery keeps him fresh. 

"There are many times when I come back from England into Middlesbrough and have learnt quite a lot about international football and football in general," he explained.

"I always go back with some new ideas, fresh ideas, which is a bit of pain for the coaching staff having to listen to me for the next day or so."

"Then I come to England and its a freshness working with a different set of players, big games, big tournaments.  That's the experience I'm gaining on both sides."

You can watch the full interview with Steve on England TV, just click the links above.