Brazil star Elano has no grudge against England, despite his problems with Manchester City.

Former manager Mark Hughes hustled him out of Manchester City, accepting £7million from Galatasaray, last July.

Elano is looking forward to a reunion with Sven Goran Eriksson, and insists Ivory Coast, Brazil's group rivals, have stumbled upon "a great manager."

"England have many wonderful players and are one of the favourites for this World Cup" he said. "I have big respect for them, and for Spain, Argentina and Italy. They all could win here.

"We know of Brazil's history, of our stars and records. But in a World Cup you must respect everyone.

"We will prepare for North Korea no differently to a match against one of the bigger teams."