Matt Hughes wrote in The Times: ‘John Terry's time could be coming. With Steve McClaren announcing his squad for his first friendly, against Greece, on August 12, the next two weeks could shape the rest of Terry's life and he is determined not to be caught out of position. One false move or slip of the tongue, in an interview or in a nightclub, could cost him what he describes as his "ultimate ambition", to lead his country into the European Championship qualifying campaign and even the next World Cup.
The biggest difference that David Beckham's successor could make would be to deliver some tangible success to the two generations of England fans born since 1966. Terry is at least used to savouring that winning feeling and will be spurred on further by the disappointing nature of England's World Cup exit.'
He said "I've learnt from various different people over the years and taken little bits from each one of them. I've kicked on to another level as a player over the last couple of years. I've not spoken to Steve about it at all, honestly."
While a McClaren/Terry era may be just about upon us, Trevor Brooking is a little unsure about the FA, and Alan Shearer has turned down the opportunity to work alongside McClaren and Terry Venables.
The FA's director of football development Trevor Brooking said: "I said that after the World Cup I think we should have more of a public debate about it (youth development). When I went to the governing body I was hoping that I could do things but really . . . I've found I can't do much. Everything I've tried to do has been blocked." (The Times)
Shearer told England's official website: "I was flattered when Steve telephoned me just before the World Cup and explained the role he visualised for me, working alongside himself and Terry Venables. I met him upon my return from Germany and was impressed with his plans and his vision for the future. However, I had already told the BBC that I would extend my contract with them and I did not want to break my word."
McClaren said: "I would have loved to have had him on board but I fully understood the reasons behind Alan's decision. Alan has chosen to honour a contract to which he had verbally committed."