Defoe: Andorra warning

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Jermain Defoe knows England will have to be patient when they tackle Andorra in their opening World Cup qualifier.

The Portsmouth striker is expected to start up front alongside Wayne Rooney in Saturday's clash at Barcelona's Olympic Stadium.

England do not have the happiest of memories in away ties against Andorra, as they were booed off at half-time in their Euro 2008 qualifier having failed to breach the minnows' stubborn rearguard due to some insipid attacking play.

Defoe again expects the team tipped to be the Group Six whipping boys to pack their defence and set out with a firm desire to restrict England.

And he has warned his international team-mates they will have to work hard to break down their opponents in Fabio Capello's first competitive game in charge.

Chances

He told Sky Sports News: "No game at this level is easy, you have got to be patient against a team like Andorra, they get a lot of people behind the ball.

"You have got to keep the ball and be patient, get crosses into the box and when you do get your chances make sure you take them.

"I think it helps if you get an early goal because then you can kick on and try and get another, but it is going to be difficult because of the way they play."

Defoe came off the bench to set up England's third in their last away meeting against Andorra, with David Nugent scoring from on the line with the ball already destined for the back of the net.

And while he admits that England made tough going of the first 45 minutes, the final result was all that mattered.

He added: "It was a little bit frustrating, but we had most of the possession and kept the ball well.

"Sometimes it takes time, 0-0 at half-time, for me, that wasn't such a bad result. In the second half we won the game quite comfortably, which is the most important thing."