World Cup 2014: David Beckham believes the kids will be alright as he tips young England squad to come through World Cup group
Beckham feels Hodgson has combined the right blend of youth and experience to come through tough games with Italy and Uruguay
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.David Beckham is convinced England are in the right shape to make an impact at the World Cup.
The former England captain said there was "no reason to be worried" about the younger players in the team, who begin their campaign against Italy next Saturday.
England have drawn friendlies against Ecuador and Honduras in Miami during a preparation camp, and manager Roy Hodgson's squad now head to Rio de Janeiro for the start of the tournament.
Beckham said on ITV: "It's a young team, it's fresh. They're all in great form, they've all had good seasons for their clubs.
"People have turned round and said, 'Are they worried about young kids going into a massive tournament?'.
"There's no reason to be worried because they're all playing in the best league in the world, the toughest league in the world, and they're playing top quality players week in, week out."
The likes of Daniel Sturridge, Raheem Sterling, Ross Barkley, Jack Wilshere and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could have key roles to play in Brazil.
Assessing England's youngsters, Beckham said: "They're young kids and young kids are always nerve-free (when) they go into these competitions.
"You do need a bit of experience in there, and we do have experience in this squad. Stevie (Steven Gerrard) has come off one of the best seasons for him for Liverpool and he's in great form, and the young kids are going to need someone like Stevie. And having Frank (Lampard) in the team... having that experience is so vital.
"Obviously it's a tough group but all the groups are tough in a World Cup."
Asked if England could come through a first-round group that also contains Uruguay and Costa Rica, Beckham said: "Of course they can (get through).
"It's a big game against Italy in the first game, but they'll be up for it.
"They always prepare well for big competitions and Roy is exceptional at that, so they'll be ready."
PA
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments