Wayne Rooney believes the only way England can lift the World Cup is by a vast improvement on current form. After missing out on even qualifying for Euro 2008 under Steve McClaren, the Three Lions have made giant strides under new coach Fabio Capello.

"Of course we are in with a chance," he said.

"But there is a lot of hard work to do yet and there is a lot of improving that we have to do if we are going to win it.

"Our results have been better in qualification than they have in friendlies.

"We did beat Germany but Brazil are number one in the world and this is a massive game for us.

"We need to play some good football if we are going to win."

But, in a week that has been dominated by the diving issue following David Ngog's controversial tumble in Liverpool's draw with Birmingham at Anfield on Monday, the Manchester United striker will not be tempted to dive in order to get a result.

"As a footballer, I try to be honest,'' he stressed.

"But there are some times when you go down and it looks worse than it is.

"You might be trying to protect yourself from a defender trying to kick you and are merely trying to get out of the way.

"On other occasions, it is a blatant dive. You have to try and get the balance right.''