Oxford-based England star Martin Keown admits he will be "devastated" if he is not selected for his country's opening Euro 2000 game against Portugal next Monday.

The Arsenal defender, who lives at Wheatley, played against Brazil at Wembley and in the final warm-up game in Malta last Saturday but there has been strong media speculation that Kevin Keegan will choose Tottenham's Sol Campbell to partner Tony Adams against Portugal in Eindhoven.

Speaking on his way to the England camp at Spa in Belgium, Keown said: "The most important thing is that the team does well and goes through the group and as far as possible, but from a personal point of view, naturally you want to play in the team and if you don't play, you're deva- stated. "I've obviously got a good understanding with Tony and we gel well.

"Sol's performances in the last World Cup were impressive, but in recent times I feel I've certainly challenged him. Having said that, I do believe that players who don't play in the first match will be given opportunities later."

Keown, 33, who was born in Oxford, grew up in the city and played for Garsington, Rose Hill, Marston Saints and Oxford Boys before hitting the big time with Everton and Arsenal, believes England have enough players who have played regularly at the highest level to do well in Euro 2000.

"The experience we gained in European competitions should stand us in good stead," he said. "The spirit in the camp is excellent and we can't wait for it to start."