The Coventry keeper will be the last line of defence for his country against Belgium in the tournament's curtain raiser in Brussels today.

And the Sweden camp believe, with hit-man Larsson back in the fold after breaking a leg last autumn, they are a good outside bet for the title.

Hedman said: "It's very important to have him here as a player and as a team-mate.

"I said before the tournament we would miss him, but now he's here and he's done remarkably well. If he can score a few goals it will be even better."

Larsson wasn't expected to make the finals after breaking his leg playing for Celtic in a UEFA Cup tie against Lyon last year, but he refused to give up and made a late charge into the squad.

Now, after appearing as a sub in a friendly against Spain, he could start against the host nation in the King Baudouin Stadium.

Hedman said: "Henrik brings us experience and the ability to score goals. He's quick, tricky and not a bad header of the ball either. What he's done for Sweden and Celtic speaks for itself."

Larsson has vowed to play with no fear if he caps a remarkable comeback by playing in today's game.

He said: "I'm not afraid. I know I am strong and I can handle it. I won't go on being scared of being injured. That's part of football."

"I feel fit and I've been training a lot in high intensity practice. I'll have no problem if I'm picked to play.

"I played 25 minutes of the last league game and 25 minutes against Spain. I won't know until I try whether I can get a full 90 minutes."

Coach Lars Lagerback is also delighted to have Larsson, who has scored 10 goals in 47 games for his country, primed and ready for Euro 2000.

The Swedes have been rocked by the absence of Sunderland midfielder Stefan Schwarz, sidelined with an Achilles injury.

Lagerback, however, has a fully fit squad to choose from against the Belgians. One or two players have colds, he said, but that won't rule them out.

And the coach was in buoyant mood on the eve of the big kick-off, insisting his team weren't simply in the Low Countries to make up the numbers.

After winning England's qualifying group at a canter they have their sights on going further than they did in 1992 when, as hosts, they reached the semi-finals.

Lagerback said: "All 16 teams have a chance and Sweden are a good outsider.

"We have very experienced players. Most of them have played for the national team for a long time and play for good club sides.

"I wouldn't underestimate us, but winning Euro 2000 will be very tough."