England World Cup squad: Steven Gerrard backs Adam Johnson to make final cut

24 May 2010 13:28
Johnson was named in Fabio Capello's initial 30 strong World Cup party which will be trimmed down to a final 23 on June 1 after the friendly internationals with Mexico at Wembley tonight and Japan in Graz on May 30. [LNB]But the former Middlesbrough player impressed when part of England's training camp in Austria after impressing Capello during the second half of the campaign at Eastlands. [LNB]The 22-year-old is expected to play at least some part against Mexico and has caught the eye of Steven Gerrard. [LNB]The Liverpool captain said: "Adam has looked fantastic in training. He is a typical left-winger, he gets good crosses into the box, and is exciting on the ball. [LNB]"We will have to wait and see what players Fabio goes with in the final 23. [LNB]"But I am sure Adam has got a fantastic chance of going to the World Cup because he is a very talented player."[LNB]Gerrard is fully focused on helping England to achieve glory in South Africa but took time out to express sympathy for Michael Ballack who will miss the finals through injury. [LNB]It brought back memories for Gerrard of being forced out of the 2002 finals in Japan and South Korea. [LNB]Gerrard said: "I do feel sorry for Michael Ballack. I know exactly how he is feeling. [LNB]"Back in 2002, I experienced an injury and wasn't able to take part (in the World Cup). [LNB]"One of the worse things that can happen to you as a footballer is missing a World Cup. [LNB]"We know the Germans are very strong, have good players, and I am sure they can cope without him - but he is a fantastic player and will be missed." [LNB]

Source: Telegraph