Liverpool fullback Glen Johnson has warned Italy not to underestimate England.
The countries meet for the 25th occasion this weekend in their Group D World Cup opener at the Arena Amazonia in Manaus, having first met in 1933.
"I think we had a good team when we played Italy last time, but now we have more players who can hurt them attacking-wise," the Liverpool right-back said.
"We have a bit more pace in the squad as well so hopefully we will get further on.
"I don't think Italy will have met an England team like this before. The team we had before was a good side but maybe it was slightly defensive.
"If we can defend well now and use some of the pace and ability we have going forward we can cause problems."
