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World Cup: England captain Steven Gerrard keen to manage expectations

Image: Steven Gerrard: Fans must be realistic

England captain Steven Gerrard has urged supporters not to pile pressure on them ahead of next year's World Cup.

Unlike in the previous World Cup, Gerrard feels the right ingredients are there for the campaign in Brazil to be a relaxed and enjoyable one. John Terry questioned the tactics of then manager Fabio Capello during the 2010 tournament in South Africa while other players did not take well to the Italian's strict approach. The team also disliked being holed up in a remote retreat in Rustenburg. There was a clear change of tact from Hodgson when he took over. He based the squad in the centre of Krakow during Euro 2012 and plans are afoot to place the squad in the heart of Rio next summer. "I think it is relaxed (this time) because Roy trusts his players," said Gerrard, who worked with Hodgson at Liverpool. "He gives them free space and free time, but when we work, we work hard and if he sees anyone slacking he is on us like a ton of bricks and that is the right way to do it."

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