Sweden honours Eriksson

Henrik Larsson was named Sweden's striker of the year

England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has been named Sweden's Personality of the year at the Stockholm Football Gala.

Eriksson acknowledged the contribution of right-hand man Tord Grip and England captain David Beckham for much of his success over the past year.

The former Lazio and Sampdoria manager turned England's fortunes around when he took over from Kevin Keagan last year.

His side are now on their way to Korea and Japan for the World Cup finals next year.

Eriksson has revived England's fortunes

"Thanks to all the Swedish people who have not have forgotten me even though I have been abroad for a lot of years," said Eriksson, who beat Sweden coaches Lars Lagerback and Tommy Soderberg to the award.

"And thanks to David Beckham who scored the lovely free-kick against Greece.

"I will share the prize with Tord Grip, the man who has done so much for me."

Two other British-based Swedes were honoured at the event.

Celtic's Henrik Larsson was named best striker and Arsenal's Fredrik Ljungberg was given the best midfielder award.

Barcelona's Patrik Andersson won the best defender award.