08 February 2005    
Press Conference: Sven-Goran Eriksson

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Eriksson has been struck by an injury crisis which has forced Sol Campbell, Rio Ferdinand, Matthew Upson, John Terry and Ledley King to miss the friendly encounter at Villa Park.

But Eriksson is looking forward to seeing Carragher and Brown spearhead the England defence as they look to stake their claims for a regular place in the side ahead of the World Cup qualifiers next month.

Eriksson also revealed he will hand a first start to Manchester City's young winger Shaun Wright-Phillips, who will play on the right-hand side.

Eriksson said: "It is a blow that we have four central defenders away through injury.

"But on the other hand it is very good for Carragher and Brown to show what they can do at this level, so that is positive.

Manchester City's star midfielder Wright-Phillips has scored ten goals so far this season and made a great start to his international career with a goal against Ukraine in August last year.

"My intention is to play Shaun Wright-Phillips on the right," said Sven. "He deserves the chance because he has been playing well all season and I look forward to seeing him play against Holland."

Crystal Palace have benefited from 15 Premiership goals so far this season from Andy Johnson and he, along with 20-year-old Downing, is fully deserving of a first call-up.

"Andy Johnson and Stewart Downing will also get a run-out at some stage of the game," Sven continued. "Andy was not even in my plans a year ago, but he has had a great season and is scoring a lot of goals.

"Stewart has also had a good season and is still young. He is a big talent and is left-footed. We don't have too many left-sided midfielders in the squad.

"I don't need a scout going up to Middlesbrough, because I talk to his club manager Steve McClaren every week."

Sven's week has been dogged by injuries, especially in defence where six players have had to withdraw.

"I hope there will not be any more injured players," Sven smiled. "We trained on Monday and everyone seemed okay.

"I hope we can produce a better performance against Holland than the one we showed against Spain.

"Holland are the favourites in their qualification group and we will probably see them in the World Cup. They have always had good football players."