There were few bright spots for England fans in Barcelona, with David Nugent's debut goal being one.
The Preston North End striker became the first outfield player for his country to ply his trade outside the Premiership in eight years.
And with Wayne Rooney and Andrew Johnson proving fruitless against the international minnows, McClaren looks certain to cast his net down the English leagues once more.
"Nugent proved that there is talent outside the Premiership, with so many foreigners in that league Steve knows that the Football League is where the next generation of players are," an FA source told a popular Sunday newspaper.
"There are good players in the U-21 side, but again it is too Premiership-based. Steve is ready to take a gamble, at the moment the most highly-rated forward outside the top division is Billy Sharp at Scunthorpe.
"He's scoring lots of goals, and more importantly has a smile on his face. That's what England need right now, a warning to established players that they're not safe, as well as some enthusiasm. England are currently stuck in a frail loop of complacency.
"Sharp is being watched by scouts from the Premiership, including Liverpool, and a move would certainly see him called up. Even if he doesn't, finishing the season on a high with Scunthorpe would be enough to get him a call."
If McClaren does call-up Sharp then he could be in line for an improbable debut in the first senior England game at the new Wembley in May - when South American giants Brazil are expected to be the opposition - ahead of a Euro 2008 qualifier in Estonia on June 6.