England's perfect days

BBC Sport's Mark Lawrenson believes England's World Cup double against Germany and Albania was beyond coach Sven Goran Eriksson's wildest dreams.

Sven Goran Eriksson will reflect on the World Cup double bill against Germany and Albania and believe it could not have been any better.

England recorded two impressive wins, scored seven goals, conceded only one, saw young players come of age, and turned the goal difference factor on its head to stand on the brink of automatic qualification.

It all makes a for a very satisfying few days for Eriksson and his emerging England side.

It was inevitable that it would prove a more difficult game against Albania after the amazing events of the 5-1 win against Germany in Munich.

Eriksson will be delighted

And in some ways the patience and persistence required to earn the win against Albania will have provided a more valuable lesson for England's young players than the almost unreal drama of Munich.

Albania's main intention would have been to avoid a heavy beating, while England's realistic aim was simply the win that leaves them with their World Cup destiny in their own hands when they face Greece.

England were slightly nervy in the second half, but in reality they had all the possession and created plenty of chances.

Michael Owen is on a golden run at the moment, and the instinctive way he took his goal was a reflection of his confidence. I doubt he would have been as clinical maybe six months ago.

Beckham's brilliance

Robbie Fowler's goal was pure Fowler. Instinctive evidence of a rare gift. The contrasting goals were also evidence of the variety of talent available to Eriksson.

It is also impossible to over-estimate the impact of David Beckham on England at present.

He was simply magnificent.

Beckham's appointment as captain raised eyebrows, but he is leading by example and showing leadership qualities that are surprising everyone.

He loves playing for his country and shows great pride in captaining England.

Beckham was everywhere at St James's Park, a truly outstanding footballer and leader.

Owen - key figure

England and Eriksson will reflect on a job well done over the last few days.

The results and effect of the games on Group Nine would have been far beyond what Eriksson would have envisaged when he stood in Munich's Olympic Stadium at 6.29pm on Saturday night.

And I must admit I can't see him making many changes if the same players are available to face Greece.

Eriksson obviously has his system and personnel in place - so why should he change it?

England have had an unbelievable few days - and they deserve all the credit they are getting.