England coach calls for good behaviour at Euro 2004

England's football coach Sven-Goran Eriksson has urged fans to behave at Euro 2004 – saying that it would be a massive disaster if the national side had to leave the tournament for non-footballing reasons.

Mr Eriksson was speaking after he met with supporters at FA Headquarters last night to help launch a new campaign – 'Alltogethernow' – which is designed to promote outstanding behaviour and attitude in fans at the Portugese-hosted event.

"I'm sure that everyone will behave well. One lady said to me that the fans felt very welcome when England played in Faro recently and I'm sure it will be the same this summer," said the England coach.

He added: "Of course it is very important the fans behave well this summer. This was one small step to get closer to supporters. But I know everyone is working together, The FA, the fans and Portuguese police to avoid trouble because that would be a disaster for the whole nation."

An FA spokesperson said: "England fans were well behaved in Japan in 2002 but incidents during the qualifying campaign for Euro 2004 showed there is still much to do. And the possibility that UEFA could try and throw England out of the tournament if there are further serious problems remains a possibility."

Mr Eriksson said that England must continue to improve its reputation both on and off the pitch.

However, what would ensure an outstanding response from fans would be the sight of England lifting the Henri Delaunay trophy.

"I have always believed that England can win in Euro 2004. I think we have shown it many times in big games. If we are lucky and have no injuries I think we can beat anyone, I am pretty sure about that. Together we can do it," he said.

(gmcg)