McLaren aiming to topple Dutch master

McClaren knows a win would see his side take a mighty stride towards next summer's finals in Austria and Switzerland.

The England coach is convinced a repeat of their weekend showing against Israel would be enough to see off Guus Hiddink's men.

‘To be the captain and do that would be amazing’

John Terry

But he accepts the unbeaten Russians, who have conceded only one goal in eight matches so far despite Hiddink's preference to play just three orthodox defenders, makes them infinitely more dangerous opponents.

Which is why McClaren is looking for his players to show fluidity in both thought and movement in an effort to counter the visitors' threat.

"We have to try to do something Russia do not expect," he said. "The idea is not to play with a rigid system. It always has to be fluid and flexible."

Meanwhile, captain John Terry has vowed to repay the faith of England's expectant fans.

McClaren's men head into tonight's Euro 2008 qualifier on the back of an impressive 3-0 victory over Israel.

England are now currently third in Group E, three points behind leaders Croatia with four games left.

The manner of Saturday's performance certainly captured the imagination of supporters once again, with key midfielder Steven Gerrard, the Liverpool captain, declaring the current crop of international players the strongest team he has known.

Terry, 26, also firmly believes England have the talent and self-confidence to finally deliver on the big stage.

"I want to be a captain to be remembered - that means taking us to the Euros and really giving ourselves a chance to win something with England," declared Terry, who has been skipper of the national team for just over a year now.

"To be the captain and do that would be something amazing. We are a long way off at the minute, but hopefully the possibility is there."