Eriksson: England always come good when it matters

SVEN-GORAN ERIKSSON attempted to draw a line under the events of the past week as he focused his mind on the Euro 2004 finals by insisting his squad have never failed him when it really matters.

Eriksson not only endured criticism of his decision to talk to other clubs about his future, but also suffered the sixth defeat of his reign as England were beaten by his native Sweden on Wednesday night.

The England coach nevertheless insists that he can cope with any criticism that comes his way, just as long as he is judged on competitive results.