Speaking at the city’s magnificent new stadium, the former England and Liverpool goalkeeper, who is part of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s national team coaching staff, said: "Huge numbers of English fans will travel to Germany this summer to be part of what will be a fantastic football party.

"No other country enjoys such dedicated support and we want to show that England fans are genuine, passionate fans who will make a hugely positive contribution to the colour and atmosphere of the tournament."

England will play Sweden in Cologne on 20 June in their last Group B match, following matches against Paraguay in Frankfurt and Trinidad & Tobago in Nuremberg.

Representatives of englandfans, the official England supporters club, have been teaming up with their German counterparts in the host venues to organise a variety of events.

In Cologne’s case, Tim Murray, James Carreras, Richard Stiff and David Finn of the South Coast and Eastern branches of englandfans have developed strong links with the Koelner Fans Projekt and co-coordinator Wayne Colbert. Together they are planning a 5-a-side tournament and charity auction.

The visit forms part of Alltogethernow 2006, a campaign by England fans and The FA to promote positive fan behaviour at the World Cup in Germany and respect for the host country.

Launched on 28 February at Anfield by David Beckham, Steven Gerrard and Sven-Goran Eriksson, it is also aimed at showing a positive image of England fans to people in Germany and around the world, and to demonstrate that the stereotyped image of anti-social and violent behaviour is not a true reflection of genuine England supporters.

Alltogethernow 2006 follows on the back of a similar campaign ahead of Euro 2004. UEFA paid tribute to the England supporters, giving them 9 out of 10.

Before and during the World Cup, there will be a range of initiatives taking place around England and in Germany, organised primarily by the fans for the fans and supported by The FA. These include road shows, regional competitions, player messages, ambassador visits to Germany and a variety of media events.