ESPN Soccernet

Shearer invokes spirit of Euro '96
for England's World Cup bid

22 February 2010

Alan Shearer believes England could create an even better atmosphere than the one which lit up Euro '96 if they are given the chance to host the 2018 or 2022 World Cup.

Former England captain is backing the 2018 and 2022 bids.

The striker was a key member of Terry Venables' side, scoring five times as they reached the last four at the European Championship 14 years ago before losing to Germany on penalties.

And the former England captain is now keen to see international football's premier competition return to England for the first time since 1966.

"We all want it here, it is such a huge and significant thing for our country to have, see and experience and it would be great for everyone,'' Shearer told Press Association Sport.

Asked what his memories of Euro 96 were, the former Newcastle man said: "The penalty (from Gareth Southgate) that never went in that saw us pack our bags and go home.

"Great atmosphere, great to play at Wembley in front of the home fans, it gives you an extra buzz to be in your own back yard.

"It gives you a huge lift and the further we went in 96 the better the atmosphere got and I'm sure it would be the same if not better at the World Cup in 2018.

"Over the next few weeks you'll hear a lot of people say we've got the stadiums and the fans and I go along with that. And those atmospheres that those stadiums generate week in, week out, are fantastic.''

And former Manchester United striker Teddy Sheringham, who forged a successful international partnership with Shearer during Euro '96, said he too backed England's bid to host a major tournament again.

"How fantastic would it be to have the World Cup here?," Sheringham said. "I was lucky enough to be involved in Euro '96 and what a great occasion that was and it would be even better to have the World Cup here.''