England can strike gold, says Audley

David Smith13 April 2012

Boxer Audley Harrison today predicted that the presence of three Olympic champions at Wembley will inspire a gold medal performance from the England football team.

Harrison will join fellow British Olympic heroes Denise Lewis and Steve Redgrave for a special salute before the kick-off of the vital World Cup qualifier against Germany tomorrow.

"That must give the lads a boost," he said. "The way the public got behind the Great Britain Olympic team was wonderful. The whole country is uplifted in terms of sport and I feel sure that will have a knock-on effect on the footballers."

The 28-year-old Londoner, who had a trial for Watford before discovering he was better with his fists than his feet, added: "In football we've already beaten Germany this year. I really believe they can do it again."

Speaking in London six days after he secured one of Britain's 11 Olympic gold medals, Harrison revealed for the first time his plans to conquer professional boxing.

Harrison, who needs an operation to heal a damaged left fist, said: "I want to be British champion by the end of next year. I really think I can achieve that goal in just five fights. I will be 29 soon, so I don't want to be held back.

"Then I want the world title. I believe I can achieve that by the time I'm 33."

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