World Cup 2010: What England Thinks Of The USA

The Three Lions size up their former Colonies.

Ahead of what is set to be the key fixture in Group C, Goal.com took a look at what the English have been saying about Bob Bradley's side.

Gary Lineker | Former England striker and BBC television host

“Don’t be fooled - the USA do not have strength in depth and rely way too much on Landon Donovan.

“The England players and coaching staff must be very pleased. It’s a fantastic draw for England, to be perfectly honest."

Steven Gerrard | England captain

"I think all the games in this group are going to be difficult in their own ways.

"The USA are a very strong team in the first game so I think it's important that we stamp our authority on the tournament and let everyone know what we're about and what we aim to do going forward.

"So it's very important that we get off to a good start and get a good result."

Jimmy Greaves | Former England striker

"It's going to be very interesting, it definitely won't be a walkover that's for sure. It could be a very tough match. The Americans will be very well prepared and it'll be a tough test for us."

Terry Butcher | Ex-England captain

"If I was an American defender I'd belt him one. "The Americans have already said they are going to wind him up and if I was playing against him I would do the same as well."

Andy Cole | Former England striker

"I am worried [about the USA], you should worry about them. Look at this stage of the tournament; what easy teams are there? There aren't any. [USA players] are playing in big teams in Europe."

Phil Neville | Everton captain and former Three Lions defender

"Confidence is not a virtue that Americans can ever be accused of lacking and, as the big showdown with England in Rustenburg creeps closer, their belief is building.

"I can tell you now the USA strongly fancy their chances of repeating their 1950 heroics by beating England at the World Cup.

"I asked Bruce Arena what his pal Bob Bradley might do to try and outwit Fabio Capello. He said they are going to play one defender and nine forwards – and that shows their current frame of mind."

Gordon Banks | Ex-England goalkeeper

"We played quite poorly [in friendlies]. If we play like that against America then we’ll lose because they’ll be a tough match for us. They’ve got players that play in the Premier League and in Europe – they’ve got a lot of experience so it’s going to be a tough game, I think."

Ian Holloway | The usually outspoken Blackpool manager

"I must admit I'm a bit nervous about the first game against the U.S. because they have some fantastic athletes and football is improving all the time over there. They are certainly no pushovers, which is a concern because in this competition you need a good start."