The former Liverpool striker was at his peak on that day almost 22 years ago when he scored in a 1-1 draw that frustrated the Three Lions.

England went on to draw with Poland, too, and were famously denied a place in the World Cup Finals.

Now Toshack is hoping to do it all again, this time in Cardiff on Saturday.

He said: "I think if we are going to win the game we are going to have to play very, very well. We know we are playing against a more than useful side with some very talented players. If they reach the final they will possibly be one of the favourites.

"But the last time the World Cup was in Germany, in 1974, England, Wales and Poland were also in the same group.

"And England didn’t qualify because they couldn’t beat Wales and Poland at home – I remember I scored at Wembley in a 1-1 draw

"England will be hoping that doesn’t repeat itself. It isn't easy for them, either. The Poles have won all their four away games and scored a dozen goals in the process – and they will be feeling they also have a chance to win the group.

"In league terms we are already relegated, we can’t reach the finals. But we can have a say in who goes through."

Toshack says Wales will be in determined mood, but he also fears England will be at their very best as they bid to erase memories of a recent 4-1 friendly defeat in Denmark.

He added: "A little bit of disappointment sharpens the senses and I don’t think the result in Denmark has done us any favours.

"From a motivational point of view they only have to say one word to the players and I don’t think it would help our cause. It was always going to be hard but it may even be a bit harder now."