England Football - Eriksson believes in Downing

England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson believes Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing could make an impact on next year's World Cup in Germany.

Downing, 20, earned his first international cap when he came on as a substitute in the goalless draw with Holland.

England have struggled for years to find a midfielder to play on the left, with the Boro man billed as a potential candidate with his impressive form this season.

The youngster could be named in the squad to tour America at the end of the season and the Swede is expecting to see even more progress.

"Stewart Downing could be ready for the World Cup," Eriksson told www.thefa.com

"You never know when he could be ready. Before I picked Joe Cole and waited for him to be ready. Suddenly he has become ready, so you never know.

"The left-sided player does not have to be left-footed. It would be good to have a left-footer but there is a small percentage of them. You can dream about it but sometimes you don't find one."

Eriksson believes some of his big players need to be at the top of their game if England are to win the tournament next year.

However, the former Lazio boss admits his side also need to be fortunate with injuries and vital refereeing decisions.

"Normally teams that win big tournaments have one or two super players, like Pele or Maradona. I hope we have one next year," he added.

"They way we are playing and the confidence in the squad is fantastic. I know the squad is growing and that's good for the future.

"We also need some luck. If we don't have any injuries I am very very confident we will qualify and when we get there we will have a very good World Cup.

"It is played in Europe which is good for us. Only one South American team has won a World Cup in Europe - Brazil in 1958. All the rest of them have been European teams."

First there is the selection process, and Downing will be hoping that Eriksson backs up his words with action.

He could make some sort of impact. Especially at the left han dside for England a much needed position. I wish the lad all the best. But I dont think hes what England need to win the World Cup. But letes wait and see.