Vieira begins build up

Patrick Vieira today began the build-up to this summer's Euro 2004 clash between England and France by saying: "The coach will not need to motivate us for this match."

The Arsenal captain added: "This is a game that nobody wants to lose. There are many players from both sides who know each other from their clubs or through playing against them in the Premiership. Psychologically, no one will want to be beaten."

Vieira, Thierry Henry and Robert Pires are almost certain starters for France and will be up against Highbury team-mates Sol Campbell and Ashley Cole. Chelsea's Marcel Desailly and Claude Makelele will face John Terry, Frank Lampard and Joe Cole.

Vieira, in Paris for France's meeting with Brazil tonight as part of the FIFA Centenary celebrations, said: "The England game will be more difficult than people think.

"England do not have to play at their best to be dangerous. They can score from nowhere through Michael Owen or from a free-kick from David Beckham. And the defence is very strong."