Steven Gerrard: Fabio Capello can make the difference

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England can clinch their spot in the 2010 finals with two matches to spare if they beat Croatia at Wembley on Wednesday.

They have struggled to live up to expectations in recent tournaments and seldom threatened to repeat their 1966 success.

But Gerrard is full of optimism for the battles ahead in South Africa next summer - if England qualify.

He said: "I think Fabio Capello could be the key to having a successful World Cup. He is one of those managers amongst that handful around the world who are the best.

"Managers who are that good can make the difference. It is good we have him here with England and he and his staff are focused and are winners.

"If they can translate that into the team, and you listen and learn, I am confident we can do well. I think that winning mentality has transferred itself to the team.

"There is still a long way to go, improvement for this team to do before we can win a World Cup, but I'm certainly confident we can do better that what we have produced before."

Gerrard wants England to make amends for their defeat at Wembley against Croatia two years ago which ended their hopes of playing in the Euro 2008 finals.

England will go into the game with Slaven Bilic's side boasting a 100% record from their opening seven qualifiers.

Gerrard said: "Croatia will be a big test and we have got a lot of respect for them especially after the last time they performed at Wembley.

"But I think the players are still hurting from that result and performance and we need to use that to motivate us to try and get the win on Wednesday.

"As a player you don't want to miss out on a big tournament. We have got a fantastic chance on Wednesday night to go to the World Cup.

"We don't want to go into the last two games needing results. It is very important that we get the job done straight away."
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