Lampard: We must believe in ourselves

WORLD CUP: FRANK Lampard admits it is now crucial that England overcome Algeria on Friday — following the Robert Green blunder that derailed hopes of making a winning start to the World Cup.

Green allowed a low 25–yard shot from United States midfielder Clint Dempsey to slip out of his hands and over the goal line for the equaliser in Saturday’s 1–1 draw in Rustenburg.

With Slovenia overcoming Algeria yesterday to go top of the group, Lampard is aware England cannot afford any more slip–ups in Cape Town after skipper Steven Gerrard’s early goal was cancelled out.

England’s vice–captain said: “It’s crucial to win the next game. To win against the USA would have put us in the driving seat but we have to believe in ourselves.

“It was the first game – and first games are notoriously cagey. They all have been like that so far in the tournament and we were just unlucky with the goal.

“It was unfortunate and it was frustrating. Their goal came at a good time for them. But that’s the way it was and we know there is room for improvement still.”

Lampard insists Green has the support of the players and he showed his character with a crucial second half save to deny Jozy Altidore a shock winner.

Capello has now to decide whether to show faith in Green, who has started nine of the last 12 internationals, or recall either David James or Joe Hart.