'Massive' Germany clash awaits England
James Masters
Sunday, 21 June, 2009
Stuart Pearce and Fraizer Campbell look forward to the Germany game
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England may have secured their place in the semi-finals of Euro 2009 but manager Stuart Pearce is refusing to get carried away.
Following a battling display in their opening victory against Finland, Pearce's youngsters then booked their place in the last four with a brilliant 2-0 win over Spain in midweek.
England face the small matter of a clash against Germany before their semi-final date with destiny and despite the impressive campaign from the Three Lions so far, Pearce wants more.
"It's a million miles from being a success at the moment," Pearce said.
"Firstly, England against Germany is a massive match and we are going to attempt to win. Every time those two countries play there is a lot on it.
"You get judged on whether you win, lose or draw when you wear your international jersey. I don't know if I will rest players.
"In these tournaments, if you take take your foot off the gas for one moment it's fatal. You never pick up the tempo again.
"I've seen it before and it won't happen here."
England suffered Semi Final heartbreak in 2007 as they went out to Holland after losing 13-12 in a marathon penalty shootout. But this time around, Pearce reckons his side have the mental strength to lay the ghost of two years ago to rest.
"We've got pace on the counter-attack, and the modern game is about the counter-attack," Pearce added.
"We also have a strong mentality. We've got guts in abundance but have to pass the ball a bit better."
Manchester United striker Fraizer Campbell is having a brilliant tournament and he showed his undoubted quality in front of goal when he notched the opener in England's 2-0 victory over Spain.
And with Germany looming, Campbell knows his team-mates will be intent on getting one over their bitter rivals despite knowing their place in the last four is assured.
Campbell added: "There is a massive rivalry between us and Germany. I don't think the game will lack any bite just because we are through. It will be a good game."
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