Eriksson is relishing the derby atmosphere that is certain to greet both England and Wales when they walk out for a crucial World Cup qualifier in Manchester.

And, like the rest of the country, he is revelling in the surge of excitement that has spread across the nation with news that both Rooney and Ferdinand should be back in action.

"It will be an exciting game, that's for sure," said England's Head Coach.

"And of course it's big having Rooney back. The first match he played after his injury he scored three goals for Man United - that's huge positive news for him and for England.

"He seems to be very, very happy right now. He has a big smile on his face all the time and he's been doing very, very well. You couldn't tell that he had been out of football for so long.

"But you could say the same about Rio Ferdinand. That's even more amazing to see the shape he is in after eight or nine months out. It's incredible."

The twin world-class threat of Rooney up front and Rio at the back is certain to have Wales shaking in their boots, and Eriksson believes both players will play a major part in what could be a crucial victory.

"What can I say about Rooney?" he said. "He was almost top scorer in Portugal even though he only played three-and-a-half games. That says everything at that level - he's a goalscorer.

"I went to see him play for Manchester United in the Champions League and he was incredible. If you are an opponent it's not easy to play against him because he can do a little bit of everything - in fact he can do a lot of everything!

"He plays with no fear and I hope he can go on like that forever. He's very special in this, I should say. Some players are nervous, some are less nervous. But he seems to be extremely cool and he's like that because he's so confident - he knows he can handle things at this level. I wouldn't expect Rooney to be nervous for a football game, whatever it was."

If Rooney won't be nervous against Wales, despite the match being billed as a the Battle of Britain, there's no chance of Rio getting in a sweat as he stands in the Old Trafford tunnel at five-to-three on Saturday afternoon.

The Manchester United defender has been outstanding for his club since returning from an eight-month ban, and Eriksson has been hugely impressed.

He said: "Rio has been very prfofessional and he seems very relaxed and is working hard. He has so many qualities as a player and his presence is also important. He's quick, can play football and win headers and he's difficult to beat. And the good news is that he seems to be in very good shape."

Rooney, too, has proved his fitness in training for England despite three months on the sidelines with a broken foot, and if the rumours are to be believed he could play in a new role on Saturday, behind the front two.

"I haven't decided the formation yet, even if I have ready it in the papers," insisted Eriksson. "I don't think it would be professional of me to talk about the tactics before the match - but I will be happy to talk about it afterwards! We will see if we are playing one, two or three strikers when the match starts.

"But as for Rooney, he can beat people, he can score goals, he can play up front or as second striker or in the hole. Tactically I prefer not to talk about that today but he's intelligent enough to play in many positions."

Whoever lines up against the Welsh, it is certain to be a fiery affair,with two sets of passionate players who know each other well - but all determined to pick up three vital World Cup points.

Eriksson is anxious for his players to match the opposition's enthusiasm for the fixture, but equally concerned they remain disciplined.

He said: "It's like a derby game and although we might be favourites on paper the problem is that when you are the favourites the other team always want to beat you!

"Wales have a very good team and just having Giggs and Bellamy is very, very good for them. They have a lot of pace so I think it's going to be a good game. We will have to play very well to beat them.

"I think you have to get the balance right in these matches. I really hope we are up for it just as Wales are up for it, because if we're not the risk is very very big, extremely big, that we won't win the game. Of course we have to stand up there and if we have to make a tackle we do it. If we have to receive a tackle we do it. You will not win football games, even if you have the best 11 players in the world, if you do not fight and if you do not win tackles, and be first to the ball.

"But there is another side to it. There will be a lot of passion out there from both sides, so it's important that we stand up and that we're professional and that we keep 11 players on the pitch for 90 minutes. You have to keep your head as cold as possible."

If England can do that, it could be an exciting afternoon in Manchester, and thereis certainly no lack of incentive for the Three Lions' star men.

Not only are Rio and Rooney making comebacks, but Sol Campbell is fit again after injury and Michael Owen is more fired up than ever after being criticised for his slow start to the season at Real Madrid.

"Michael seems very happy to be here," said Sven. "We spoke a lot about his injury but he feels fine. Of couse he hopes to play more for Real than he has done so far, but it's not a concern for today. It might be come Christmas time, but not now.

"I'm sure he wants to show what he can do - and this is a good opportunity for him. If he's playing, that is. I'm not giving anything away!"

With so many world-class players back in contention and nationwide discussions over who will play in what formation, it's an exciting time for England.

And you can be sure that Wales boss Mark Hughes will be awaiting the England teamsheet with even more apprehension than the players themselves!