Eriksson defends May tour despite criticism

SVEN-Goran Eriksson has extolled the virtues of England’s tour to the US despite criticism from leading managers.

Eriksson has already come under fire from Arsene Wenger and Alex Ferguson over the two-match tour at the end of May.

England, who specifically avoided any World Cup qualifiers in June to rest their players, are due to face the United States on May 28 and Colombia three days later.

However, Eriksson still believes it is a worthwhile exercise.

“I’m sure after the season ends, some players will need operations so there will be some young players going and it’s a good opportunity for them.

“But I am not worried that the players will get too little holiday as, when we made the fixture list for the World Cup qualifiers, my only request was not to play in June,” he said.