Steven Gerrard has warned it is vital England keep their discipline in Tuesday's crucial World Cup qualifier in Montenegro as he expects intimidatory tactics to be used by their opponents.
The England skipper believes group leaders Montenegro will try to put pressure on the referee to make "rash" decisions in the hostile atmosphere in Podgorica. England had striker Wayne Rooney sent off on at the same stadium 17 months ago as they surrendered a two-goal lead and had to settle for a 2-2 draw - although it was enough to qualify for Euro 2012.
Gerrard said: "It is important we keep 11 men on the pitch because it is going to be a very difficult game. It is going to be a pressure situation and we don't need to give the referee any excuse to send any of us off or any unnecessary yellow cards."
He added: "It is important everyone takes responsibility and stays on the pitch. I'm sure everyone knows it before the game but I'm sure the manager (Roy Hodgson) will remind everyone. I'm sure that will be one of the points on the board.
"They will be trying to claim every decision, every foul, and they will be trying to intimidate the ref to make rash decisions.
"I'm sure we will have a good ref in charge who will make sensible decisions but it's important we keep our cool and keep everyone on the pitch."
Gerrard is confident England have enough pedigree and experience to cope with what will be a hostile crowd.
He said: "I think their supporters will make it as hostile as they can. "Anytime you are away from home against these countries, when England are in town, the supporters are up for it.
"They are desperate to beat us, and everything is against us, but I think we've got the players in the squad to go and handle the situation and get the three points.
"I don't think there will be that many people there and we are used to playing in front of bigger crowds. These are the type of atmospheres where they try and intimidate us and I think we will be used to it and will be able to handle it."
Source: PA
