Vassell and Hargreaves start

Sven-Goran Eriksson handed 21-year-olds Darius Vassell and Owen Hargreaves the chance to make an impression in England’s opening World Cup group game against Sweden.

Vassell and Hargreaves were included in an outfield line-up with an average age of just under 24, while David Beckham was also deemed fit to lead the side.

However, Fredrik Ljungberg also confirmed his fitness to make Sweden’s starting line-up for the game in Saitama.

Vassell’s pace and finishing prowess, with three goals in his five previous international appearances, won him the right to partner Michael Owen up front.

That meant Emile Heskey was out of position on the left flank, while Beckham was set to provide the inspiration from the other flank after winning his fitness battle to secure his 50th cap.

Hargreaves’ mature displays in England’s two Far East friendlies ensured that he was preferred to fit-again Nicky Butt in central midfield alongside Paul Scholes.

In defence, meanwhile, Danny Mills was chosen ahead of Wes Brown at right-back, while Eriksson was looking to Ashley Cole to provide attacking bursts down the left flank behind Heskey.

Eriksson’s preferred central defensive partnership of Sol Campbell and Rio Ferdinand were retained, while 38-year-old David Seaman offered experience as he resumed his place in goal.

Seaman’s Arsenal team-mate, Ljungberg, had been a major pre-match doubt with a groin problem but was fit to start the game.

Swedish captain Patrik Andersson was nevertheless ruled out after injuring himself in training and he was replaced by Andreas Jakobsson.