The England coach is aware that he has to be mindful of the threat likely to be posed by the likes of Luis Figo and Rui Costa.

But he also knows the importance of getting off to a winning start in the tournament and insisted: "We have got goals in us."

Keegan will not make his side public until shortly before the kick-off, but he is understood to have opted for the more attack-minded Steve McManaman in the problem left-sided role.

That is the area of the pitch where the dangerous Figo is likely to operate and Keegan's selection of McManaman, instead of the more solid Dennis Wise, represents a big gamble.

But his faith in his line-up is unwavering as England aim to win their first trophy for 34 years.

Keegan said: "I am adventurous as a coach, but we have to look at things from all angles and this side is right for this game.

"If we say 'this is the team to stop Portugal' then we are on the back foot from the first minute.

"I think the team I have has the balance not only to defend well when Portugal have possession but is also a team, if it plays to its potential, that can cause them an awful lot of problems.

"There is no doubt in my mind that we have got goals in us. We have got players who can not only create things but also people who have proven records of goalscoring.

"I think it will be a game of goals and I am hoping they are all one way - ours!

"The matches in the competition so far have been played at a fair old pace and we will seek to do the same against Portugal."

Keegan believes he has a squad capable of living up to the expectations of the nation and he stressed that all 22 will have an important role to play.

He said: "We have done our homework and we are ready for the tournament to start. We are ready for a game. I can sense that amongst the players.

"We've got a really good blend to call upon, including people who have played in the World Cup finals, and I don't think we will fall short.

"The fans wants us to go out and perform well and make them proud of us - and that's what we want. I sense the fact that the players know it's an opportunity for it to be a memorable three weeks.

"I promise you, that with the 22 players I've got, I couldn't be happier with the blend - although we are not blessed with millions of left-sided players.

"I've told the whole 22 of them that if we are going to win Euro 2000 then they are all going to have to play a part.

"Some of them will have major roles, some of them cameos - but those cameos will be just as important.

"The 11 who start tonight will get a buzz, but I have told the others they are also vital."

Sol Campbell is expected to partner Tony Adams, even though the Tottenham player has struggled to reproduce his best form in recent internationals.

Martin Keown, who had to suffer the frustration of four non-playing substitute roles in France 1998, looks likely to again have to be content with a place on the bench.

England (probable line-up): Seaman; G Neville, Adams, Campbell, P Neville; Beckham, Scholes, Ince, McManaman; Shearer, Owen.