22 June 2006
VIDEO: Sven press conference
Just 24 hours after learning Michael Owen will miss the rest of the tournament, Sven talks to the media.
England v Ecuador
Round of 16, World Cup 2006
4pm, Sunday 25 June
Gottlieb-Daimler-Stadion, Stuttgart

Sven-Goran Eriksson has expressed his sympathy for Michael Owen after the England striker’s World Cup campaign was cut short through injury.

Owen ruptured his knee ligaments in the first minute of England’s 2-2 draw with Sweden on Tuesday night and has since flew home for treatment.

Eriksson admits Owen’s injury is a blow but he has full faith the Three Lions’ squad, as Wayne Rooney’s fitness continues to improve.

He said: “I am very sorry for Michael and for the England fans and I told him that yesterday. It happens in football, it’s sad, but it happens.

“I don’t regret picking four strikers because I think we are covered very well and Rooney is getting better and better and that is a positive thing.

“I am sure I picked the best squad, of course you can never know if players will get injured, but I am not worried about that situation today.”