Eriksson plans new session for squad

Sven Goran Eriksson is planning to bring his squad together for a two-day training camp in mid-November and is confident of receiving the support of Premier League clubs. The England coach is conscious of the fact that, as things stand, the national side will not join up again until mid-February when they will play either Denmark or Australia in a home friendly. He has been aware of clubs expressing concern over the schedule their players have to undertake and has reduced the number of friendlies this season.

But he believes it is important to spend some time with his players, who are expected to join up on 19 and 20 November during what is a designated international week, although nothing has yet been finalised.

He said: "Do I expect the support of clubs? Yes. I know the clubs did not favour a friendly international either side of Champions' League games and I always understood that. That's the reason why we took away the friendly in November, but it's important to come together because the next time we are together after Wednesday is mid-February.

"Even for the players to have a two-day break from their clubs may be good. I'm sure there will be no problem with them coming together for two practices. If there is anyone injured, they might come along as well and we can talk."

Eriksson insisted: "I have always had a good relationship with the managers, all of them, and I understand where they are coming from because if you are paid by a club you have to defend your interest. I have always understood that because I was concerned for my players when I was a club manager – but the relationship with everyone is good."

Paul Newman, the Football Association head of communications, confirmed that discussions were on-going about playing Denmark or Australia, probably on 12 February.