Sven-Goran Eriksson's team have their final two Group Six matches in the next eight days and know that two victories at Old Trafford against Austria and Poland would put the Three Lions on their way to Germany next summer.

"It is good to be together again," Sven said. "I have been impatient for these matches to come along since the Northern Ireland game and I know the players have felt the same way.

"Everyone is raring to go, and now we are focusing totally on our training and preparations."

He added: "The spirit in the camp is excellent and we are determined to get the two wins we need to finish top of the group."

The team started their preparation when they took to the training field on Tuesday afternoon. Of the 24-man squad named by Sven on Sunday a few were missing during the session at Manchester United's Carrington training centre.

Most of the England squad who played in matches on Sunday remained at the team's hotel and took part in a recovery session, while the Chelsea players had a warm-up at Carrington before returning to base.

Newcastle United striker Michael Owen, who missed his side's 0-0 draw at Portsmouth on Saturday, received treatment at the hotel and will undergo some field work with the physio on Wednesday. The 25-year-old is expected to train with the team on Thursday.

Another absentee is skipper David Beckham who is yet to join up. The Real Madrid midfielder has been given permission by Sven to remain with his family while one of his sons has tests in hospital.

Beckham will join the squad on Wednesday afternoon.

Stay with TheFA.com for all the latest from inside the England camp.