England captain Steven Gerrard has insisted that there is no pressure on the Three Lions at this year's World Cup, with the team in 2014 not considered to be among the favourites to lift the trophy.
Gerrard said that at his previous two World Cups there had been a lot of expectation on England, which saw them fall short under the pressure, but expects to enjoy his third attempt a lot more.
"Going into previous World Cups when you're getting labelled the 'Golden Generation' and putting you up there with the favourites to win the tournament, it brings unnecessary pressure on the players," he told ThePFA.com.
"I think this time around there's a bit of realism about. Although we've qualified and done really well and we are moving in the right direction, I think people realise that this tournament is really hard and there are 12 or so other top sides that are competing for it as well, teams that are full of world-class players. We go there with a chance like everyone else but I think people are more realistic this time."
England take on Italy in their Group D opener on June 14.
Matt Domm
