Liverpool striker Michael Owen will captain England against Paraguay tomorrow.

St. Michael to lead England troops

England captain David Beckham is of course ruled out the game so Eriksson has opted for the experienced Liverpool striker to lead the Three Lions.

"He was the best footballer in Europe last year and I think he's a very clean and popular one inside and outside England," said Eriksson.

"It's up to him to show that he's also a leader and I think he is.

"Michael Owen will be captain for the game and then we'll see when David Beckham is back.

"Hopefully it will be for one game, because that means that Beckham is back.

"If Beckham is not back for the World Cup, which could happen, then I will think about it and see what we're going to do, if it's Michael or someone else in the squad."

Eriksson revealed that Owen was shocked when told the news.