England captain Steven Gerrard believes that his side are in a "must-win scenario" in their World Cup clash with Uruguay later today.
The 34-year-old, along with Frank Lampard and manager Roy Hodgson, addressed the team following their loss to Italy, warning the players that a defeat to Oscar Tabarez's side could see them eliminated from the tournament.
"It was important for them to realise what is at stake and how important this game is," Gerrard told reporters. "We have got a must-win scenario.
"It wasn't a message to scare any of the lads but a wake-up call to everyone in the room - the staff and the players.
"It could be a terrible long, frustrating summer if we don't get it right on Thursday. There is no hiding place for a player when you go out of a tournament."
Winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been ruled out of the match as he has failed to recover in time from a knee injury.
