Fabio Capello will stick to the habit of a lifetime and not tell his players the England team to face the United States on Saturday night until two hours before kick-off.

Rather than fill them with dread and anxiety, not knowing whether they have a performance to prepare for or not, Capello insists his formula brings major benefits because it ensures every single member of his squad will be fully tuned in for the start of their World Cup campaign.

"I always decide to speak with the players at the last moment," said Capello. "Sometimes the pressure is bigger but it means all the players are ready to play."