THE nation will be glued to its TV sets tonight, hoping against hope that England will beat Germany, ahead of booking a place in next year's World Cup Finals.

England face a daunting task in Munich, trying to beat a German side which has had the better of us in big games since 1966.

While the odds are against them, this is a predominantly young England team with the potential to spring a surprise.

A win tonight may well see them installed as one of the tournament favourites.

After a summer dominated by a lack of success in the Ashes cricket series and the World Athletics Championships, it would be wonderful to have something to cheer about.

But it is not only English football on show tonight. The eyes of the world will also be focused on the English supporters in Munich.

Whatever the result on the field, we hope that our headlines on Monday reflect a classic sporting encounter and not another disgraceful display of violence and wanton hooliganism.

A win will count for nothing if so-called fans go on the rampage as they have done in the past.

We will find it difficult to have pride in England players if we have nothing but shame for England fans.