Source: Team_Talk
Gerrard warning for England rivals
Steven Gerrard insists England can be a World Cup "match for anyone" if they live up to their potential and listen to what Fabio Capello says.[LNB] Jermain Defoe's 23rd-minute goal in his first competitive start for 21 months was enough to earn England second place in their group courtesy of victory over Slovenia.[LNB]It was their first victory of the tournament but a vast improvement on the goalless draw against Algeria in Cape Town five days ago.[LNB]The win means England will meet Group D winners Germany in the last-16 on Sunday.[LNB]"There is relief there because the lads were under pressure and we are all so glad to be through to the next round," Gerrard said.[LNB]"All games are difficult but it's about us now. If we turn up and play close to our potential we're a match for anyone.[LNB]"We can do well if we play like we did against Slovenia, stick together, keep trying to improve and keep listening to the manager.[LNB]"His ideas and what he wants from the team are spot on.[LNB]"If we can deliver what he is asking we will be difficult to beat like we were against Slovenia.[LNB]"We have the quality to win football matches."[LNB]But Gerrard is aware England cannot afford a repeat of their showing against Algeria when they were booed off at the final whistle by their own fans.[LNB]He said : "We have done it before when our backs were against the wall and people were out there doubting us.[LNB]"We rolled our sleeves this time and produced the goods. We need to do that all the time.[LNB]"To get to the latter stage of the tournament, you need to find that consistency now.[LNB]"If we perform like we did against Algeria, I don't think we'll get another chance."[LNB]Gerrard again repeated his belief that Wayne Rooney will soon deliver goal-power.[LNB]Rooney looked sharper than in the previous two games and struck a post in the second half.[LNB]Gerrard said: "Wayne's had a bit of criticism over the last couple of days but he worked his socks off and showed quality.[LNB]"If people keep doubting him, it's up to them - but I'm certainly not. I know goals are around the corner now for Wayne."
