Even as Roy Hodgson prepares to unleash Andy Carroll on Sweden on Friday, the England coach cannot help thinking about the impending return of Wayne Rooney.

In the knowledge seven of the last 11 goals Sweden have conceded were headers, including both in their defeat by Ukraine on Monday, it seems Carroll will join Danny Welbeck in attack as the Three Lions go for a more direct approach.

If the move succeeds, England would be within touching distance of a last-eight berth, with Rooney ready to return for the final game against Ukraine in Donetsk on Tuesday.

"I am not worried about our attacking play," said Hodgson.

"We have the quality of players and who can score and we have a world-class player of our own to bring back - and I know he is very anxious to get into the team."

Such is the frequency with which Hodgson has spoken about Rooney, it seems certain his England team will be built around the Manchester United man, who could also be named vice captain, and understudy to skipper Steven Gerrard.

"I am satisfied with what I think we are achieving only three weeks into the job," said Hodgson.

"Maybe I can't satisfy everyone and other people would like to see more.

"I am realistic and pragmatic. Five, six or seven training sessions into the job we are making a fist of it.

"I am sure we will get better. Just a simple thing like the return of Wayne Rooney will make us into a stronger team and a bigger threat."