Aston Vila ace James Milner credits his performance in England's victory over Slovenia to David Beckham.

Beckham is acting a major motivator within the England camp and Milner is delighted to call on the LA Galaxy midfielder's experience.

Beckham himself would have been proud of the cross which he supplied for Jermain Defoe's goal to beat Slovenia.

"If he was, then great," said Milner. "Since I've come into the England squad over the last year or so, I've been in the squad with David Beckham and I've watched him in training.

"Before a game he'll come over and have a chat and say what he thinks about the game and give you the odd word of advice.

"It's fantastic to have a player of his quality and experience about the place, to give the wide players and everyone else a lift, and have a word when it's needed."

Milner was exceptional in Wednesday's 1-0 win against Slovenia and pleased to have made an impact in South Africa after his awful start to the tournament.

"It's my first World Cup and you don't imagine your first game coming after a half-an-hour,' he said. 'I would've been pretty devastated if that had been my last contribution to this World Cup.

"It was disappointing and to get a second chance to start in a big game was nice and I was able to contribute. It was a good finish from JD because we have worked a lot on crossing and finishing.

"There's been a lot of talk about the ball with keepers and defenders but it's not easy to get on the end of the crosses as well. The ball is moving around, so it is a good finish from Jermain."