Gerrard: 'Confidence is high'
Monday, 06 September, 2010
Captain says Three Lions are looking for three points in Basle.
Steven Gerrard feels England are full of confidence ahead of their Euro 2012 qualifying clash against Switzerland and wants the players to respond to the challenge of winning away from Wembley.
Fabio Capello's side responded to a difficult World Cup with a home friendly win over Hungary before a stunning 4-0 victory against Bulgaria at Wembley on Friday night.
Gerrard, who is continuing as captain in Rio Ferdinand's absence due to injury, senses a renewed confidence in the Three Lions' camp and wants to complete a perfect start to their Group G qualifying campaign with a win in Basle on Tuesday.
"All the players understand what we're here for - to get three points against a very good team," said the Liverpool midfielder. "We're confident after the other night and it's important we don't get distracted.
"I think that will be different. Switzerland are a good team - they are very organised defensively and difficult to score against.
"A win here would do wonders for our confidence. The lads are feeling good but we understand not to get carried away.
"That was the plan when we first joined up last week - to take six points. A draw here would be a good result but it would be fantastic to take three points.
"The way the boys played the other day was fantastic - I don't think you have to change much after a 4-0 win.
"We're away form home against a good side and it's a big test for us. We've won two games at Wembley but this is our first away game since our poor performance at the world cup. As captain I'm confident the players will rise to the challenge."