Jack Charlton has said Sven-Goran Eriksson's side has no chance of winning the 2002 tournament.
The former Republic of Ireland manager and member of England's 1966 World Cup-winning team was quoted in the Irish Staras saying: "There'll be nobody happier than me if Ireland meet England in the final.
"But I don't believe that's going to happen because England have no chance of getting that far."
Charlton said England could be knocked out in the first round if they fail to beat Sweden. "I don't feel they are capable of beating Argentina so they must defeat the Swedes," he said. Nigeria are the other team in England's group.
Charlton said Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy was more prepared for the World Cup finals in Japan and South Korea than England boss Eriksson.
"I think Mick already knows his starting team against Cameroon but I don't believe Sven has a prayer about his first choice," he said.
England play their first round matches in Japan. The finals begin on May 31st.
The Republic of Ireland's World Cup campaign kicks off against Cameroon in Nigata on June 1st. They also play Germany and Saudi Arabia in the group stage of the tournament.