Coach : Sven-Goran Eriksson
The highest-paid national coach in the world, this tournament represents Eriksson's last chance to show he is worth the money. Failure is almost certain to result in him parting company after the World Cup with two years of his contract remaining.
Key Players
Rooney is the most important player by far - just remember how England folded when he was injured in Euro 2004. Eriksson also needs Lampard and Gerrard to gel properly in midfield if his side are to mount a real challenge, and for Ferdinand to return to his 2002 form in central defence.
Form Guide
Have rediscovered their form after a shaky period during qualification and victories over Poland and Argentina showed that England are back on the right track.
Form Versus Countries In Group
England have not beaten Sweden in any competition since 1968, and drew 1-1 with them in the 2002 World Cup. They swamped Paraguay 4-0 in a friendly in 2002, and also swatted them aside 3-0 in the 1986 World Cup.
Style Of Play
Eriksson's side play best with a high-tempo game, with lots of movement off the ball and midfielders arriving late into the box. Beckham's set-pieces are also a key part of the strategy.
Group Verdict
Despite their poor record against Sweden they should top the group - and they will need to do so otherwise are likely to face hosts Germany in last 16. |
