Former England striker Michael Owen has tipped the Three Lions to qualify from World Cup Group D in next month's tournament in Brazil, alongside South American team Uruguay.
The group also contains Italy and Costa Rica, but despite England's fellow Europeans being above them in the FIFA world rankings, Owen is confident that his old side can "hold their own".
"It is a tough group, but it isn't impossible for England to qualify for the knockout stages," Owen told Sportlobster.com "Italy are obviously a decent team, while Uruguay and Costa Rica are also solid. However, England can hold their own.
"If we have any aspirations of winning the World Cup or going far in the tournament, I don't think we should be afraid of any of the three teams. I expect England to qualify along with Uruguay."
Owen scored 40 goals in 89 appearances for England.
