Sven will stand down after the World Cup Finals this summer but says his players are right behind him and ready to try and win it.

There have already been some highs during Sven’s five years in charge, including beating Germany 5-1 and reaching the quarter-finals of the World Cup in 2002 and the European Championships in 2004.

But now he is ready for one last push.

He said: "The most important thing is to concentrate on the World cup because we have a chance to win that. I am sorry to be leaving but I hope the best is yet to come in Germany."

Sven plans to talk to many of his players over the next week but says he has already spoken to captain David Beckham about his decision to look for a new challenge after the World Cup.

He said: "On Monday after the game at West Ham I spoke to my captain to inform him what was going to be announced and he said: ‘I’m sorry’ and some other things which will remain between us. I will speak to some of the other players in the next few days."

Sven is adamant he has not fallen out of love with the job despite the media circus that so often surrounds it. And he will be completely committed in Germany 2006.

He said: "Is it a relief to leave? No. I always liked the job and I still do. I think we have a fantastic team and a chance to do very well in Germany and hopefully win it if we get a bit of luck and no injuries. I really, really hope we can do a big, big tournament in the summer.

"The players are behind me. I have spoken to some of them and there have been no problems. I hope we we are going to do a great World Cup."

When asked what advice he would give a manager offered the job of England Head Coach, Sven was certain.

He said: "If he asked me, whoever it is, I would just say ’take it’. It’s a huge job, a fantastic job."


One to ponder…

With which club did Sven begin his coaching career?

Answer: Degefors

more to ponder…