World Cup 2010 - England recommended Viagra at World Cup

A sports scientist has recommended giving the England team Viagra at next year's World Cup in South Africa to help them cope with playing at altitude.

Doctor Richard Pullen, who is working with the FA, said the anti-impotence medication would boost the players' lung capacity while they train and play in Rustenburg, nearly 5,000 feet above sea level.

He said: "I'll point out to the England squad the potential benefits of using Viagra for games played at altitude.

"It's scientifically proven that the process of how Viagra works in the body, by enlarging the blood vessels, can improve performance of some athletes.

"Also known as sildenafil, it's been used by football teams in South America and some cyclists because it's not a banned substance.

"I'm sure several countries at the World Cup will consider using Viagra."

England are expected to pitch their tent in the north-western city of Rustenburg where they will play the USA in their opening game, on paper their stiffest opponents in Group C.

Should England qualify as runners-up from a group that also includes Algeria and Slovenia, progress is likely to be more difficult as there is a good chance they will face old rivals Germany in the second round.

Bookies have installed England as third favourites for the tournament, making them bona fide contenders, but an FA spokesman said the drug was unlikely to be used to help the players raise their game.

"The England medical staff are conducting detailed research with a variety of experts ahead of next year's World Cup," the spokesman said.

"However, there has been no discussion with regard to Viagra and certainly no plans for the players to take it in South Africa at the tournament."