Lawro's England verdict

BBC Sport's Mark Lawrenson sees no reason why England can't go on and qualify automatically for the World Cup.

England's victory in Greece was further evidence that they are turning into one of the top international sides in Europe.

Not only was it a professional display, it was an outstanding team performance, stretching from Rio Ferdinand at the back to substitute Alan Smith in the last 10 minutes.

It would be unfair to pick out individuals - it was a tremendous exhibition of how simple football can be effective.

I can see no reason why they won't win that crucial match

  Mark Lawrenson

Eriksson does not have any secret formula.

He simply asks his players to perform a role in which they feel comfortable and essentially, in a position most of them play week in week out for their respective teams.

The only exception is Emile Heskey but, his understanding with Robbie Fowler, Michael Owen and Steven Gerrard as well as his forays down the left flank were crucial to England's success.

There is also a real feel good factor when it comes to England these days.

Two years ago, if they had been drawing 0-0 after 62 minutes, the crowd might have got on their back and the players wilted in the Athens heat.

Now, with five wins under their belts and a settled squad, both the side and the crowd almost expect England to go on and win games from that position.

There is also tremendous balance in the team.

Admittedly, Eriksson has organised his troops well but he is fortunate to have a strong central midfield partnership and players who are comfortable on the ball both on the right and left.

People like Phil Neville, a player who has been widely criticised by the press, look so much more assured on the right, clearly a position he favours now that Ashley Cole has come in on the left.

Certainly, the Germans will offer tougher opposition.

Greece are a poor side, particularly their keeper Antonis Nikopolidis who should have prevented Beckham's free-kick hitting the back of the net.

The three more points now put England in control of their own destiny.

A win in Munich and no slips-ups elsewhere mean Eriksson can look forward to the World Cup without the worry of a play-off encounter to get past.

And, the way the side are playing at the moment, I can see no reason why they won't win that crucial match.