Gerrard: England are not out of it yet

Though Roy Hodgson's men were beaten 2-1 by Italy in
Manaus on Saturday, the Three Lions skipper feels
that they showed enough enterprise to progress from
Group D
England captain Steven Gerrard feels that the Three Lions
showed enough in defeat against Italy to suggest that they
can still make it out of World Cup Group D.
Claudio Marchisio's first-half opener was swiftly cancelled
out by Daniel Sturridge's goal but Mario Balotelli struck early in
the second period and, despite long periods of pressure, Roy
Hodgson's men could not find another equaliser in Manaus.
With rivals Uruguay having earlier suffered a shock 3-1
defeat to Costa Rica, though, Gerrard remains hopeful of
progression.
"Whatever the result tonight we would have had to go and
beat Uruguay anyway," he told BBC Sport after the game on
Saturday. "The challenge is a bit more difficult but certainly
doable.
"Italy are a good team but we knew how they were going to
play. They never surprised us. It's disappointing because we
put so much into it and came away with nothing."
England were enterprising despite the defeat, with the likes
of youngster Raheem Sterling impressing in an exciting
attack, and the skipper was pleased with their intent.
"We got criticised four years ago for sitting back and being
toothless but anyone who watched the game could see we
were trying to create," he enthused.
"We pushed and pushed. We gave it everything we've got
and were unlucky not to get anything out of it.
"The chances were there and we created them. Maybe we
need to look at finishing a few more chances off but we
can't point any fingers because everyone has given
everything they've got tonight. The effort, desire and
commitment was there.
"We weren't sure how Italy would improve from two years
ago but they certainly found another gear," he added. "If we
look at the game as a whole we can be pleased. It just goes
to show how cruel this level can be.
"It was a tough night but, whatever the conditions, it was