Daniel Sturridge is convinced that if England continue with the positive approach they showed against Italy, it is only a matter of time until their fortunes turn.
Sturridge scored England’s goal in the 2-1 defeat in Manaus on Saturday night – but Roy Hodgson received widespread praise for his attacking lineup - and the Liverpool striker remains adamant that if the Three Lions put in a repeat performance against Uruguay on Thursday, they will get their just reward.
“We understand if we continue playing like we did we will get results. It's not if we will win, it’s when,” he said.
Uruguay v England
FIFA World Cup Group D
Arena de Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo
8pm BST, Thursday 19 June
Live on ITV
"You have to get it out of your system quickly. We realise that. If you dwell on things, it goes into your next game. “
Sturridge also drew upon his end of season experience of the title run-in with Liverpool to emphasise the importance of securing all three points against Uruguay – and keeping their fate in their own hands ahead of the final group stage game against Costa Rica.
"A draw could be enough but what I have learned from Liverpool when it is in your own hands you try and get the job done rather than ask for favours,” he continued.
"We understand what we have to do and there are two games where we need to get a minimum of four points.
Sturridge also got a bit of advice from his mother...
“There is a lot of confidence around the camp. I don't think there are any nerves or anxiety.
"We were disappointed with the (Italy) result because we knew how well we played and it was an opportunity to get a result and we didn't do that in the end. We have two games to get the job done.
"We realise it's a big occasion in our careers. Some might get only one World Cup and you don't want to be going home early"
On the subject of the fitness mystery surrounding his club teammate Luis Suarez, Sturridge also said that he has not asked for any inside information on the Uruguay team and hopes he will be fully fit to face England on Thursday.
England were back in training at their Urca base in Rio on Monday
"I have not asked him for any clues and he hasn't asked me for any,” he added.
“He is going out there to help his country do well. I hope he is fit and we get to play the best Uruguay team possible. We need to do a job - whether they have got Luis or not.
"It's not just about Luis Suarez. It's a team game and not about individuals."
England take on Uruguay in Sao Paulo on Thursday 19 June at 8pm BST.
The game is live on ITV and coverage starts at 7pm.
