Scott Parker admits England need more than just 'courage and commitment' if they are to triumph at major tournaments.
New international skipper confident team can improve
New England captain Scott Parker admits the Three Lions need more than just 'courage and commitment' if they are to triumph at major tournaments.
England came from two goals down against Holland at Wembley on Wednesday night but their fight-back was ultimately in vain as Arjen Robben netted a stoppage-time winner.
Parker, who was handed the skipper's armband by interim boss Stuart Pearce for the friendly, feels England's spirit was admirable but believes they are lacking quality.
Quality
The Tottenham midfielder said: "It was a tough game against a very good team who were World Cup finalists so we knew how good they were going to be.
"Let's not hide the fact that they've got players like Arjen Robben, and, whoever he is playing against, those are the sort of things he can do. It was quality.
"At 2-0 down we could have hidden in our shell a little bit so we have to take great positives in that we got back into the game at 2-2 but are disappointed we've let one in late on.
"We all realise it's not just courage and commitment that is going to win you tournaments.
"We need to add a little bit more (quality). I'd like to think over the course of time we can do that and this game was a good step."
Parker only found out about leading the side on the morning of the game and it is a massive fillip for a player who was overlooked by England for long periods of his career.
He said: "It was a very proud day, something I only dreamed of as a boy and probably, if I'm being honest, probably only thought it would end up as a dream. It's a good advert for perseverance!
"Stuart Pearce named his team in a meeting at 10.15am and then said I would be captain.
"I didn't get briefed beforehand and that was very emotional. Nothing really lines you up for when it actually happens.
"You think about it and all day I was thinking about leading the team out and, when it happens, and you are standing there listening to the national anthems, it really hits you what I was doing."
Confidence
Parker would like another chance as captain but feels England can approach Euro 2012 with confidence whether Pearce or bookmakers' favourite Harry Redknapp, his Tottenham manager, is at the helm.
He said: "I'd like more really. Obviously my main focus now is to keep my form with Tottenham and we will see moving forward what will be, whether it will be a new manager or what will happen.
"If Harry is the manager, if Stuart takes us to the Euros, whoever it may be, we are in good stead. I owe a lot to Stuart. He gave me my chance as captain and I really appreciate that."
