Gus Poyet has labelled England "too nice" and warned Roy Hodgson's side to expect underhand tactics when they face Uruguay at the World Cup.

Both nations are scheduled to face off in their second Group D encounter later this month in a game which could help determine who progresses to the last-16 stage.

Luis Suarez made headlines in the 2010 edition of the competition when he used his hand to prevent Ghana from scoring in a controversial quarter-final tie four years ago.

Nevertheless, the Sunderland boss says that he is proud of the 'win at all costs' mentality of his compatriots, and says that the Three Lions must toughen up ahead of the clash.

"Whatever it is, to stop you, to win the game, we do that and we are proud of that," Poyet told Sky Sports News.

"We will play that game. We won't accept that you are better than us. I won't accept that you are better than me. If you're better than me, I will find a way to stop you - I'm not going to accept you're better than me because if I do, I lose.

"Are England too nice? Yes, without a doubt. I know that for you a handball on the goal-line is cheating. It's not for us - it's part of the game."

England kick off their campaign by facing Italy on June 14, while Uruguay face Costa Rica.