The Three Lions boss insists that there is no doubt in his mind that his charges will get the necessary results against Montenegro and Poland to ensure their presence in Brazil

England manager Roy Hodgson is convinced that his side will secure qualification for World Cup 2014.

Addressing the media ahead of Friday’s crucial home game against Montenegro, the 66-year-old claimed that his squad had “never discussed” the possibility of failing to reach Brazil.

England hold a one-point lead at the top of Group H and can guarantee their progression by beating Montenegro and Poland at Wembley.

“Within the camp we are convinced we are good enough to qualify and we are convinced we will do the job,” Hodgson declared. “I’ve been very impressed by the quality of training this week and the quality of football in training.

“I know [the players] will deliver and I’m convinced [that on Friday] you’ll see a very good England team.”

With the in-form Daniel Sturridge back in the squad after injury, the former Liverpool boss has more firepower available to him and, asked if an attacking approach can be expected, he replied: “We look at all our options. The important thing is to make sure we attack very well but it will be a more difficult task for us if we adopt a gung-ho approach and find ourselves one goal down.

“I’m confident the team I’ve got will strike the right balance between attacking and defending and cause Montenegro problems.”

Captain Steven Gerrard is set to draw level with Bobby Charlton’s mark of 106 caps on Friday, which would put him joint fourth in England’s all-time standings.

“I’m very proud – [Charlton] is one of the best players to ever play for England so, to equal his record, I’m very flattered and honoured,” the skipper enthused.

Pressed on the significance of the Montenegro fixture, the Liverpool midfielder added: “It’s up there with the most important games I’ve played for England and it’s up to myself and the players to deliver.”