LATVIAN legend Marians Pahars has said that the players are playing for their futures as they prepare to face England.
The Baltic side host England in Riga on Tuesday in a World Cup Qualifier, they require a positive result if they want keep their slender hopes of a play-off spot in Group K.
Despite going into the game as massive underdogs, Pahars has insisted that the players still have lots to play for.
During an exclusive interview with Solent Sports News, the former Latvian manager has urged for the players to showcase their ability to put themselves in the shop window: “It’s the biggest stage in the world for the players to show themselves as everybody is watching.
“When I was a coach, I was telling my players when we play big games that it is a massive market for them and if they come and do their best performance maybe a club in England will scout them.
“Or maybe a head coach is watching (from another club) and watches that game and thinks what a good player, lets bring him for trial.”
Tuesday will mark the first time that Latvia host England, which makes it a historic occasion.
And even more so for the former Southampton striker because of his time in England: “The biggest part of my football career happened in England, so of course English football is very close to me, my family and my heart.
“My feelings? Of course I am looking forward to that game as England have never come to Latvia before.
“It will be a fantastic atmosphere, a great game so I am looking forward to it.”
The Latvian has predicted an optimistic 1-1 draw.
