Brazil legend Pele has tipped England to reach the World Cup Final.The striker, regarded by many as the best player the world has ever seen, has been hugely impressed by Sven-Goran Eriksson's men and is backing them to shine in Germany next year.
He said: "England could be in the final, no doubt. I saw every game in the last two years and I think England have improved a lot.
"I think England, Italy and Brazil over the last two years have been the best teams, but of course we are still seven months before the World Cup.
"But if no-one gets injured and everyone has a chance to be there and in shape, I think England could be in the final."
Pele was in London for the BBC's Sports Personality of the Year Awards having been in Leipzig for the World Cup draw.
He says the growing belief that the Three Lions are good enough to win the World Cup is fully justified. But he does have a word of warning when it comes to taking on his own Brazil side.
"England could beat Brazil but the World Cup is very tough. The quarter and semi-finals are just one game and the World Cup is a box of surprises. Anything can happen," he said.
England could meet Brazil in either the last eight or semi-final depending on whether they finish top or second in Group B. But there is little doubt that Brazil will go into the finals as strong favourites, even if Pele doesn't like the title.
"I don't feel comfortable with being the favourite - they don't win," said Pele.
"I think Brazil are the best team because they have two players in each position, but the coach has too many good players in the same position and he doesn't know which players to use."