Sven wary of penalties as City prepare for Hammers

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• More Premier League news

The Manchester City manager is still wounded by England's quarter-final exit on spot-kicks to Portugal in the 2006 World Cup — the second time England had gone out of a major tournament on penalties in his reign.

The agony was etched on his face as he talked about the possibility of a repeat.

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Spot of bother: World Cup exit still haunts Sven

Eriksson said: "It was my worst defeat ever. It meant everything with England was finished.

"Penalties are not easy and when it's a World Cup, the distance from the half-way line to the area is a long way. The player has many thoughts.

"If it's on the training ground everyone scores but it's very different out there and it's all about pressure. Now it's not the World Cup, it's the FA Cup but it's still very important."

The chances of City beating West Ham in 90 minutes look to have been improved by the return to form of midfield talisman Elano.

Eriksson added: "After he came back from playing for Brazil in October he wasn't the real Elano. He got injured, then he got sick so he never trained regularly. But he's better now."

West Ham striker Dean Ashton is another player returning to form after injuries and Eriksson added: "I looked at him when I was with England and he played for the Under 21s.

"Today that's Fabio Capello's headache. He looks good when he's fit. Strong and skilful with both feet."