Captain Steven Gerrard keen to play down England expectations

Gerrard's late goals brought a positive end to what had been a testing qualifying campaign and he now hopes the expectations of a nation can be kept in balance as the squad look towards making an impact in Brazil.

"The opportunity is there," said the Liverpool star. "There is a good confidence and belief in the group, but at the same time we are going to keep ourselves grounded and stay humble.

"It is important now that it does not flip and everyone thinks we are going to go and win the World Cup, that we are favourites and everyone gets carried away. What is important is we have shown everyone we are a good team.

"We have not felt sorry for ourselves when we have had criticism, we have rolled our sleeves up.

"It is a great feeling to be in Brazil and hopefully we can go in with a less pressure on ourselves and surprise a few."

Prime Minister David Cameron led the applause for Roy Hodgson's England after they secured their place.

Wayne Rooney and Gerrard scored the goals on a memorable night as England won Group H.

"Proud to see England qualify for the World Cup in Brazil," Cameron tweeted.

Midfielder Andros Townsend, who made his England debut against Montenegro on Friday before playing a starring role against Poland, expressed his delight. "Great win tonight! Can't believe I've played a part in helping my country getting to a World Cup!! #getin #imustbedreaming," he tweeted.

QPR midfielder Joey Barton, who only last week described the England team as "s***", had a different opinion last night: "Captains goal that. Nervy 2nd half but qualification is whats vital. Credit to Hodgson tonight. Bold selection. Townsend MOM for me," he wrote on Twitter.

Michael Owen, a veteran of three World Cups, added: "Well done Roy and The Boys. Job done."

Midfielder Tom Cleverley, a regular during qualifying but injured for this match, added: "Get in there you beauty! Well in boys!"