Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard says missing the World Cup would "kill" teammate Luis Suarez.
The Uruguay striker is recovering from a knee operation and battling to be fit to face England in their second Group D game in Sao Paulo on June 19.
His Liverpool pal Gerrard said: "I think from a really really selfish point of view it would help England against Uruguay if he wasn't available. Of course it would.
"But knowing Luis as a friend and a team-mate with Liverpool, I know that missing the World Cup would absolutely kill him.
"He's a fighter and he'll do everything he can to be fit but, if not, it can only be a help. He'll understand that!''
Suarez is determined to remain positive and last night tweeted: "My dream remains intact. I will be there."
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