Gerrard warns WC rivals

Steven Gerrard believes England's World Cup rivals should fear meeting Fabio Capello's side in the finals in South Africa.

England have been named among the top seeds for Friday's draw and Gerrard believes they deserve being selected as one of the best sides at the tournament.

Liverpool midfielder Gerrard is confident England can be major contenders in South Africa and that they are a country to be feared and respected by other nations.

"It can only be to our advantage being seeded. I don't think we can be afraid of anyone," Gerrard told Talksport.

"We'll certainly respect anyone we come up against but, for me, I think it's time other teams started fearing us.

"We're going there full of confidence, we are a very good team. We've still got a lot to learn but, the way we're playing, we're a match for most teams.

"I feel my England performances have improved under Capello because I'm going out there without the fear.

"He's got the team playing without fear, without that weight of expectation upon our shoulders."

Brazil and Spain, who have beaten England in friendly encounters this year, are favourites for the World Cup crown, but Gerrard is optimistic they can upset the pair if they meet again in South Africa.

"Brazil and Spain have beaten us this year," added Gerrard.

"But in those games there's not been much in it. In a one-off game I'm confident we can turn those teams over."

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