Genial English will miss Owen

David Beckham claims England is in good shape ahead of their second round meeting with Ecuador at the on-going World Cup.

Star footballer David Beckham has claimed that England are in good shape ahead of their second round meeting with Ecuador at the on-going World Cup.

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England were somewhat fortunate to claim a 2-2 draw against the Swedes and a top spot in Group B.

Beckham said the players have been working hard in training and he was looking forward to the meeting with Ecuador Sunday.

"We are in very good shape," Beckham said. "We are in the last 16 and have every reason to be optimistic going into the game.

"We have got all players fit, apart from Michael (Owen), and we are ready for it. Spirits are very high."

Owen's loss to injury has left a void in the squad, but Beckham felt the players would look to rally round to offset the absence of the key striker.

"We have to (work harder)," added Beckham. "It is the only way to get over the loss of a great player.

"The team will come together. The team is in good spirits and we have to go on from there.

"We can't forget about Michael, but we have to put his injury to one side and get on with the job."