Euro warm-up for Sven's men

England will host a three-nation minitournament at leading North-West venues, including the City of Manchester Stadium and probably Old Trafford and Anfield, as their final preparation before Euro 2004, if they qualify for the finals in Portugal.

The Football Association have contacted Japan about the event scheduled for next May and are also chasing top European opposition.

The tournament would be similar to the Umbro Cup in 1995 and by inviting Japan, the FA are also ensuring a major market expanded during the 2002 World Cup will remain obsessed with England.

If a deal cannot be agreed with Japan, the FA will turn to other Asian opposition.

The European guests will be high-profile Euro 2004 qualifiers who have not been drawn against England in Portugal .