Ronaldinho tips Lions for fina

Barcelona's little Brazilian will be hoping to lead the charge for Brazil to claim their sixth crown, but says he expects Sven Goran Eriksson's side to be strong contenders for football's biggest prize.

"I respect all sides, but I think England will make the final in 2006," Ronaldinho has said.

"They are very strong and have a very good trainer, and I don't agree that they have inferior technique.

"I like Rooney, too. He is very promising and I think things will get better for him."

It was against The Three Lions that Ronaldinho made his mark on the world stage by scoring a sensational free-kick in the 2002 quarter final.