STEVE McCLAREN insists Middlesbrough's George Boateng should not have given up hope of playing a part for Holland in next summer's European Championships.

Boateng has been overlooked by Dutch boss Dick Advocaat in recent internationals and has only two caps to his name for his country.

But McClaren has seen enough of his midfielder to convince him that Boateng warrants a place in Holland's party as they bid to lift the Euro crown they last won in 1988.

The Dutchman was in commanding form against Portsmouth on Saturday, as he nullified the threat of Pompey's central midfield pair of Amdy Faye and Alexei Smertin.

And McClaren said: "George was phenomenal and he should be in the Dutch squad, there's no doubt about that. He gives so much in a defensive midfield role. He breaks up so many attacks by putting his foot in. We rely on him a lot.

"George has got a phenomenal attitude as well and not everyone knows that. He can still force his way into the Dutch squad for next summer because he is a good footballer.

"George is one of the main reasons why we have got so many clean sheets. His tackle on Yakubu (as he ran though on goal) was superb."

Boateng was not the only player to receive backing from the manager after Saturday's goalless draw.

But while the point made showed how miserly Boro's defence is, it also further highlighted their shortcomings in front of goal.

And McClaren said: "Goals are a team thing. Mendieta and Zenden have the freedom to play wherever they want and Zenden gives us that width.

"But goals are a team thing, not just for individuals and we just need those breaks in front of goal.

"Danny Mills and Franck Queudure have done well and Franck has really improved his discipline and concentration this season. We asked him to do that and he only has one booking this season.

"And we have Ugo back soon. But he is not certain of a place because Colin Cooper and Gareth Southgate have been phenomenal at the back and Colin has got the shirt at the moment."

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