England goalkeeper Joe Hart has insisted that the team will not be treating tonight's friendly with Brazil like an exhibition match.

The Three Lions face the five-time world champions at the Maracana Stadium this evening in a warm-up for next summer's World Cup in Brazil.

However, the Manchester City shot-stopper has said that the players will not be viewing it as any less important than a competitive game.

"We don't turn up for friendlies to play like a friendly. It's a big game for us, it's going to be a big game for Brazil," Hart told reporters.

"We're in their backyard now, they've got a big tournament coming up. It's a big couple of years for Brazil football, so it's going to be really exciting for us. There's going to be a big audience and we're really looking forward to it."

Meanwhile, Brazil star Neymar has dismissed England's chances of winning next summer's tournament.

Written by
Paul Gorst