Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz has hailed the influence of teammate Gareth Barry.

Barry was missing for England's 1-1 draw with the USA in their World Cup opener.

Paraguay striker Santa Cruz told Sky Sports News: "He is a great player and he gives any team balance.

"I think he will be playing if he's fit and everybody is expecting him to be so hopefully we'll see him playing.

Santa Cruz added: "He's a guy who doesn't really speak on the field but his work-rate is incredible so he's one of those guys you need to have in the team because he runs and runs but also can play and give the team the confidence they need."