Cole sees Portugal threat

Joe Cole does not feel the absence of Deco and Costinha will weaken Portugal.

England have the chance to exorcise their demons from Euro 2004 in Gelsenkirchen on Saturday and they will take on a Portugal side without suspended pair Deco and Costinha.

The absence of the key midfielders has increased hope that England can beat Portugal, but midfield schemer Cole feels Luiz Felipe Scolari has quality players in reserve.

"We know they are a very good side and it will be a very difficult game," Cole told The Daily Express. "They have a couple of players out, but it does not mean they will be any easier to beat.

"It doesn't work that way in football. They won't be weaker because a couple of players are out. It will make the other players even more determined.

"The players coming in will be fresher and will be playing to try and stay in the side."

England were beaten on penalties by Portugal at 2004 and Darius Vassell has warned The Three Lions that they have to remain focused.

Manchester City striker Vassell had a spot kick saved by Ricardo and has warned the players not be intimidated by the keeper's mind games.

Ricardo took off his gloves to face Vassell's spot kick and made the save before firing home the winning penalty.

"Ricardo's attitude was strange," Vassell told The Sun. "I'd never seen anything like it and I admit I was intimidated.

"I was very nervous. Ricardo was so confident he would score the following penalty.

"The trick worked well for Ricardo, but I don't think it was planned. I don't think he'll do it again.

"But if he does, I think the England players will be ready for it."