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World Cup: England boss Roy Hodgson admits fear plays a part as he rallies players

Image: Roy Hodgson: Not hiding from the fact that England are under pressure against Ukraine

Roy Hodgson has admitted the pressure is on England but has urged his players to show the spirit of Rome 1997 when they take on Ukraine in Kiev.

Hodgson admits that Lambert has been underestimated throughout his career, including by him, but has paid tribute to the Southampton striker's character. "Rickie's mentality must be very strong," Hodgson said. "Surely he hasn't just become a talented footballer who has good touch on the ball, works hard for his team and has a good understanding. "Yet people, including me, have been watching him play and passing him over. "You have to be very strong mentally to suffer that many knock backs but still keep believing in yourself, to keep saying 'no-one is singing my praises but I am still a good player'."

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