By Caroline Cheese

EURO 2008 QUALIFIER Group E: Croatia v England Date: 11 October Kick-off: 1800 BST Venue: Maksimir Stadium, Zagreb Coverage: Live on BBC Five Live Sport, updates on the BBC Sport website, highlights on BBC 1 at 2240 BST

McClaren's tactics were called into question by some but former England striker Shearer told BBC Sport: "He tried to change it in the second half.

"He took off Wayne Rooney, who might not be on form at the moment but is still his match-winner.

"He tried to win the game another way but it was just one of those days."

News conference: England coach Steve McClaren

He added: "Just because we have had one average game doesn't make us a poor team.

"Before Saturday, everyone was praising Steve and the players. You don't start panicking after an average 90 minutes."

If Scott Parker plays, he won't let England down Alan Shearer

England will be eager to bounce back from Saturday's disappointment at Old Trafford when they take on Croatia in a Euro 2008 qualifier in Zagreb on Wednesday.

Widespread reports have suggested that McClaren will opt for a 3-5-2 formation, with Shearer's former Newcastle team-mate Scott Parker tipped to make his first start for England.

"Scott has been fantastic for Newcastle, with his energy, his drive and his enthusiasm," said Shearer.

"If he does play, he won't let down England."

And Shearer expects England to come away from Zagreb in much better spirits.

"It will be tough because Croatia have a decent record at home and Steven Gerrard is suspended," he said.