Former Sheffield Wednesday flop Nejc Pecnik is optimistic about Slovenia's chances of causing a huge upset against England on Sunday.
Slovenia, ranked 48th in the world, host England's final Euro 2016 qualifier of the season on Sunday.
England won the reverse fixture 3-1 last November, but doubts resurfaced about the potency of Roy Hodgson's side after Sunday's dull goalless draw against the Republic of Ireland.
Pecnik knows Slovenia will be up against some of the best-known stars in football this weekend, but he believes England could be rusty because the Premier League season ended three weeks ago.
"We know the Englishmen, but we also know what our goal is," the midfielder told the Slovenian Football Association's website.
"I think we have a good chance of a favourable outcome.
"The English have gone some time without any real competition as their championship ended a while ago.
"I believe that this could be to our advantage."
Pecnik had a brief spell in England but never tested himself against Premier League opposition.
The 29-year-old had one forgettable year with Sheffield Wednesday in the Championship.
The Slovenian missed a penalty on his debut in the League Cup against Oldham and struggled thereafter, starting just five league matches.
He only made one 90-minute appearance for the Owls before being released at the end of the 2012-13 season.
He then had an unsuccessful season with Red Star Belgrade before joining Japanese second division club JEF United Chiba.
He insists he has no problem making the 11,730-mile round trip to Europe to represent his country.
"I must admit that I'm doing pretty well. I am pleased by moving to Japan," he said.
"Even though it's a long way from Slovenia, there should not be any problem.
"To join up with the national team is always a good feeling. This is our homeland. Slovenia always play with pride and give the maximum."
Slovenia are second in Group E, six points behind England, who have won all five of their qualifiers.
Source: PA
