World Cup: Pele backing England

England's World Cup hopes have been given a vote of confidence by Pele.

The Brazilian World Cup legend has singled out Michael Owen as Sven-Goran Eriksson's most potent weapon.

"I believe England are capable of winning the World Cup. At the very least they can reach the final," Pele said.

"Their team has really improved since Sven-Goran Eriksson took charge as their coach at the start of the year.

"For a long time England used to be afraid of playing proper football. They would charge forward, rather than playing a controlled game.

"But now they show far more patience in their play, and players such as Michael Owen and David Beckham could become the biggest attractions of the finals.

"I am a big fan of Owen in particular. He is not just a goalscorer but a roving striker as well, and opponents need to get at least two defenders to mark him."