McClaren has come under consideration to replace Gerard Houllier as manager at Villa Park. He came under fire after England failed to qualify for the Euro 2008 finals but Boateng points to his success with Middlesbrough - he led them to the League Cup and UEFA Cup final - and with Twente Enschede in Holland. Boateng, who played under McClaren at Boro, told talkSPORT: "Because of the England situation, it's been really hard for Steve [McClaren] back in England. "I understand some of the fans' frustrations because everyone was so disappointed when England didn't qualify. "His club record is phenomenal, the things he did in England, besides his success in Holland, are great. "At the end of the day people have to look at the bigger picture." Boateng added: "Johan Cruyff was a big fan of Steve McClaren. He said Steve made Twente play the sort of football Holland should be playing in the national team. "That's a huge compliment. I think he's a good manager overall." Wigan boss Roberto Martinez and Bolton counterpart Owen Coyle are believed to be other potential Villa targets who have impressed club owner Randy Lerner. Villa are currently drawing up a final shortlist after sounding out possible candidates. If McClaren is appointed by Villa, one of his first tasks will be to convince England winger Stewart Downing, who he managed at Boro, to stay at the midlands club. Downing has intimated he is unwilling to sign a new contract at this juncture and is being linked with a move to Liverpool. Villa are already resigned to losing the services of Ashley Young who is expected to join Manchester United in the next few days.
