England captain Steven Gerrard doesn’t do tub-thumping.
But if the midfielder were going to make a grand speech ahead of tonight’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Poland then November 21, 2007 would be a central component.
Manager Roy Hodgson is adamant the shattering 3-2 defeat by Croatia at Wembley has not been mentioned in the preparation for a game England must win to guarantee reaching next year’s World Cup finals in Brazil.
It doesn’t need mentioning for Gerrard.
He only has to start thinking about an international career which will extend beyond Sir Bobby Charlton’s in length at kick-off to be reminded of it.
“A big massive picture of the Croatia game in 2007,” said Liverpool stalwart Gerrard, when asked what memories he will draw on for inspiration. “It’s a memory I’ll have to take to the grave with me. One of the lowest moments of my international journey.”
Six years on, the narrative still takes some believing. England only required a draw to confirm their place at Euro 2008, against a team which had little incentive given it had already qualified.
Coach Steve McClaren took the bold decision to select goalkeeper Scott Carson for his first competitive international, a move that backfired almost instantly as the keeper let Nico Kranjcar’s long-range shot slip under him.
Croatia were two ahead before England mounted a spectacular rally, Frank Lampard and Peter Crouch scoring the goals which looked certain to claim the draw required. Incredibly, substitute Mladen Petric grabbed the winner 13 minutes from time as England were hit on the break chasing a third goal they did not need.
“It is one of those memories that keeps coming back and coming back,” said Gerrard.
“It wasn’t about nerves. We underperformed. Everyone knows I’m not the most vocal captain. I won’t be roaring and bawling.
“But I have already spoken to the lads about that feeling. I’d never try to scare a young player, but it’s important they are aware what’s at stake. We need to seize this moment.”