Brendan Rodgers: 'England could flourish at the World Cup'

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has expressed his belief that England will be competitive at next year's World Cup in Brazil.

The Three Lions secured their place in the finals with a 2-0 win over Poland on Tuesday evening, which saw them qualify as Group H winners.

England will not be one of the top seeds for the tournament but Rodgers has claimed that this will reduce the pressure on the team.

"I think England will go there with not so much expectancy on the group, which might help them to flourish," Rodgers told ESPN.

"I've always thought that England have the talent and the technical players to participate in the game at a high level. It's whether they're asked and encouraged to do that. Let's hope, for their sakes, that they can next summer."

The draw for the finals takes place on December 6.