Some of England's squad had to be moved for their own safety during the match against Andorra, BBC Sport has learned.

Some of England's squad had to be moved for their own safety during the match against Andorra, BBC Sport has learned.

Boss Steve McClaren and his players were subjected to a torrent of abuse by a large group of England fans during the Euro 2008 qualifier in Barcelona.

The Football Association confirmed to BBC Five Live that the non-playing squad members were forced to retreat to the dressing room before half time.

England won 3-0 after failing to score in the first half against the minnows.

The FA said its action in moving the non-playing squad members was "precautionary".

But BBC Five Live football correspondent Jonathan Legard added: "Pre-emptive or not, how many times have England players been the focus of such vitriol from their own followers that FA security officials have felt the need to move them out of the firing line?

"Even allowing for the inadequacy of the stewarding at the stadium, this marks a new low in relations between England players and their supporters."

McClaren was already under intense pressure following his side's 0-0 draw with Israel last Saturday.

But the booing of the manager and England's players reached a crescendo at the end of a dire first half against lowly Andorra.

England went on to score three second-half goals, two from Steven Gerrard and a debut strike for Preston's David Nugent.

But the scoreline failed to appease England's travelling supporters, who continued to boo after the final whistle. - BBC