Oxford United chairman Kelvin Thomas warns England fans not to think of the USA team as mugs ahead of tonight’s opening Wor-ld Cup match in Rustenburg.

American-based Thomas, who now spends most of the year in England because of his commitment to United, knows the soccer scene on the other side of the Atlantic better than most.

He has lived in the US for the past 14 years and has been, for some time, an Olympic development coach for Florida, selecting and coaching the most promising kids in the Sunshine State for the USA’s Olympic development team.

And he has fostered an important relationship between Oxford and the New Hampshire club Seacoast United.

The bookies and many England supporters are taking it as a foregone conclusion that Fabio Capello’s team will win the opening Group C clash.

However, Thomas warned: “The American team could prove very tough.

“It’s a very athletic side and they are very experienced in the non-US leagues, with players at the top level in England and Germany.

“I can’t believe the (England) national team manager and squad would take the USA lightly anyway, but they are a quality international side.

“In the Confederations Cup in South Africa last year they were 2-0 up versus Brazil in the final, and although the South Americans came back to win 3-2 they gave them one hell of a game.

“You have to remember, soccer, as it is known there, is the most played sport in America with kids.

“It hasn’t taken off in the same way that american football and baseball have, but it is still hugely popular.”

Thomas, who has overseen United’s return to the Football League, keeps in regular touch with many soccer-loving folk and officials in the States, and he said: “I know there are quite a few parties going on through the tournament, especially today when the England game is at 2.30pm their time.”

But he still expects Wayne Rooney & Co to come out on top.

“It all depends on who plays well on the day,” he said.

“England go into the game as favourites, but they will have to ensure they play well to win.

“Also, it’s the first game of the group, so it’s not the be-all and end-all for either side.”

l World Cup latest: Page 47