06 June 2006
VIDEO: England training in Germany
Watch the players during their first training session since arriving, including an appearance from Wayne Rooney.
06 June 2006
VIDEO: Sven press conference
Watch Sven's first press conference since landing in Germany. The hot topic of the day - Wayne Rooney.
Sven-Goran Eriksson believes he has learned so much from previous tournaments that England are better prepared than ever for Germany 2006.

With just a few days to go until the big-kick against Paraguay in Frankfurt on Saturday, Sven is delighted at the way his squad is shaping up.

Wayne Rooney will head back to Manchester for a scan on his injured foot today, with the whole nation hoping for good news.

But whatever happens England are feeling confident after learning from previous tournaments in Japan and Portugal.

Eriksson said: "What I learned was that we needed one week more to prepare, and we got it. I’m very happy about that.

"I also learned that our fitness level was not good enough in Japan, maybe not even in Portugal, and we are much better today.

"I have been speaking for more than one year to our players, every time we meet up, to say take care of your body and be sure that you are not knocked out when the season is finished.

"I'm sure it will make a difference when we play Paraguay because fitness is going to be very important for us in this tournament.

"I feel much more confident this time than before and the main reason for is that we have a better squad than we had in Portugal and a fitter squad."

There were only three small injury worries at England's training camp in Germany yesterday.

Steven Gerrard didn't finish the session after complaining of pain his back, while David Beckham and Ashley Cole did not play a full part. But both are expected to train on Wednesday and to be ready for action by the weekend.

"I think every player will be available on Saturday, all of them," insisted Eriksson. "But Rooney we have to wait and see, of course."

Rooney will be flown by private jet to Manchester on Wednesday morning for a scan and is expected to return later the same day. And Eriksson is hopeful of good news.

He said: "For one month I have told you I am sure he will take part in the World Cup. I am confident thath he will take part in the World Cup. And he is 300 per cent even more confident that he will do it!"

Stay with TheFA.com for more exclusive video action from Germany, including Tuesday's penalty shoot-out.