Former Red Phil Neville is backing Alan Smith to fire England to
victory in their must-win Euro 2008 qualifier in Estonia.
The Reds' striker opened the scoring in England B's 3-1 win over
Albania at Turf Moor on Friday night.
With Wayne Rooney suspended, Smith is now in the running to start
the Three Lions trip to Tallinn next Wednesday alongside Michael
Owen, and could also feature in Friday's friendly with Brazil at
Wembley.
Neville has been hugely impressed by Smith's recovery from injury
and subsequent return to form this season and believes he could
play a crucial role in England's European Championships qualifying
quest.
"Alan Smith is a warrior who loves opportunities like this one now
coming up with England," explains the Everton captain.
"He really grows when facing such challenges as this one. You saw
that when he made his full comeback against Roma for United in the
Champions League.
"Someone like Alan doesnt shirk any responsibility and loves a
fight and you need players like that in your team.
"It's great to have both Michael and Alan back. It adds competition
for places upfront and it is something we've probably not had all
season.
"Although we are missing Wayne Rooney and Andrew Johnson, weve got
two players who have now come into the squad who are just as good
and can score goals just as easily."
