We will beat Portugal - Eriksson
Sven-Goran Eriksson reiterated his belief England will triumph in their World Cup quarter-final against Portugal.
The England manager was adamant the team would progress to a semi-final against either Brazil or France as they come up against the man who has masterminded their exit from the last two major tournaments at the quarter-final stage, Luiz Felipe Scolari.
Eriksson told Sky Sports News “I strongly believe we will win. I’ve always believed that and now we are in the quarter-final and we want to play in the semi-final and final.
“I said a long time ago that England will do a good World Cup.
“We are in the quarters – I think we can do better, play better and I think we will stay for a long time yet.”
England have been the subject of much criticism for their less than convincing displays but Eriksson insists he is solely concerned with progressing in Germany.
“I don’t care about that (the criticism) and we have a good chance to reach the semi-final so that is what matters.
“You like to play good football but the most important thing is to win or you are on the plane home.”
The Swede would not divulge any details about the formation or make-up of the team although he admitted he had already made his mind up.
He did, however, reveal Gary Neville was expected to return after missing the last three games with injury.
“It is very good, he did everything today and didn’t feel anything after training so I think he will be okay for Saturday but we have practice tomorrow and Friday.
“If we think it is a risk he will not play but as it stands today I don’t think it is a risk.”
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