With Rooney back to the team, the England squad is more likely to win its World Cup group match against Paraguay here on Saturday.

Even it is not clear whether the 20-year-old would join its teammates to meet Paraguay's challenge, England coach Eriksson still thinks it is inspiring for the squad to start their mission to win the World Cup.

"The good news from Wednesday evening and today is that Rooney has no more injury. He's injury free," said the England coach.

The 20-year-old returned to England's camp late on Wednesday after a scan on his broken foot in Manchester. Rooney has been out of action since breaking a metatarsal in his right foot against Chelsea on 29 April.

There were fears the injury would rule the Manchester United striker out of the entire tournament, but now it looks more likely that he will be fit for the opener against Paraguay on Saturday.

"Now, it's up to us to get him match fit and, when we think he's match fit, I'm prepared to take in any specialist we want to take in," added Eriksson.

If Rooney took part in the opener, Eriksson will have more choices. Robinson is a clear first choice between the posts, as are Cole. Gary Neville as full-backs. Jamie Carragher could be setat left back, while Rio Ferdinanad and John Terry should start in central defence.

Facing Paraguay, Eriksson might start with a "flat four" midfield. Up in the front, Owen and Croach's pair would be Eriksson's first choice as Rooney is not fully fit.

Fourth in the South American qualifiers, and a dogged, organized defensive team, Paraguay might make some trouble for England during the game.

On their qualifying road, Anibal Ruiz's team managed a 1-0 victory at home to Argentina, having earlier held the two-time FIFA World Cup winners to a 0-0 draw in Buenos Aires.

So Paraguay do not lack of confidence, even their veteran player Jose Cardozo has been forced to pull out of their World Cup squad.

"We have very good defenders because one of the main characteristics of Paraguayan football is our good aerial play," said coach Ruiz.

The good news for Paraguay is that Santa Cruz has recovered from an injury and will be fit for the opener on Saturday.

"I am recovering and feeling well. I think I will start but I don't know. It is up to the coach, " said Santa Cruz.

"We know what mighty opponents England are. They have very good players, but we do as well and we have the ability to neutralize them. We have confidence in our team and I have confidence that they'll have a great match." added Ruiz.

Editor: Donald