Liverpool fullback Gen Johnson is excited ahead of England's friendly against Brazil in the Maracana.

When he was young, Johnson used to marvel at videos of Pele's skills so playing on the ground where the Brazilian played some of the best football of his career is a mightily exciting prospect for Liverpool right-back.

"I can guarantee that there aren't many players in that squad who have played in that stadium so I am sure that the lads will be looking forward to it," he said.

"It will be nice to have it on the CV, definitely.

"I would say Brazil are the most romantic of teams, purely for variety.

"They could play their third team and still be very competitive in each major tournament. They have got some unbelievable players. Some players don't stay around as long as they should do, but the next one that steps in will be just as good so they are always fun to watch."