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England 2 Poland 0: Jack Wilshere backs England to improve further before the World Cup

England booked their place in Brazil with victory last night

Jim van Wijk
Wednesday 16 October 2013 11:16 BST
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Jack Wilshere with Roy Hodgson
Jack Wilshere with Roy Hodgson

Midfielder Jack Wilshere is confident Roy Hodgson's England can take their game to another level at the World Cup.

Goals from Wayne Rooney, his ninth in 10 internationals, and captain Steven Gerrard saw off the challenge of Poland at Wembley on Tuesday night, with the 2-0 victory confirming top spot in Group H and a ticket to the finals in Brazil next summer.

Gerrard wants to keep expectations grounded over the next seven months, with a clash against Germany expected to be confirmed for November.

Wilshere, who came off the bench as a late second-half substitute against Poland, believes England will be able to up their performance when the next competitive fixture comes around on the biggest stage of all.

"Ever since I have been in this England team, we have got better and better, and the performances speak for themselves," the 21-year-old Arsenal midfielder said.

"There have been some really tough games, but we have come out of them.

"The pressure was building, but we have got great experience in this team and that showed against Montenegro and then Poland as we came through and got the results.

"We will want to get the preparations right now and then go into the World Cup full of confidence."

Hodgson has confirmed his intention to use England's remaining friendlies this season to give younger players a chance to stake their claim on a place in the final squad.

Wilshere accepts everyone will have to earn their seat on the plane to Brazil.

"There will be a few friendlies where everyone will be trying to impress and get into that final squad," he said.

"From now to the end of the season, you have to stay fit and perform for your club, then it is up to the manager."

PA

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