England's opening World Cup match could feature two Saints players after it was confirmed that Anders Svensson will be travelling to Japan and South Korea with Sweden.

The Saints midfielder could line-up in the Saitama Stadium opposite Wayne Bridge who is hoping Sven Goran Eriksson will name him in his England squad on Thursday.

Svensson has started in 36 matches for Saints since signing from Swedish side Elfsborg for £700,000 and has proved a big hit with the fans thanks to his range of passing and energy from midfield.

The delighted 25-year-old said: "Facing Wayne in the World Cup would be fun - I would have to say to him 'good luck but I hope you don't win!'

"But he has had a great season and done excellently for England and if two Southampton players were to play against each other in the World Cup that would be fantastic for the club."

Looking ahead to the potential clash with the country of his paymasters on June 2 and the other group matches with Argentina and Nigeria, Svensson added: "There are three games in the group but the first game is obviously very crucial.

"It is very important to get off to a good start so it is a big game but all three games are huge but you can only do your best.

"It is not impossible for us to get through but it is a tough group and if we play our best I think we have a chance."

Svensson, who has netted three times this season, admitted he is excited about fulfilling his boyhood dream of representing Sweden in the World Cup but has half a mind on Saints and improving his form next season.

"I am delighted to be going to the World Cup, it is tremendous and is what I have always dreamed of," he said. "It is the biggest thing you do as a footballer.

"For me this season has been OK. I haven't scored that many goals and recently the performances have been a bit poor but it has gone OK but it is a great club and we have got great players."