Set pieces crucial to beating England: Shevchenko

Donetsk (Ukraine), June 16 (IANS/RIA Novosti) Ukraine's talismanic striker and captain feels that his team will have to defend well at set pieces if they are to beat England Tuesday and reach the quarter-finals of Euro 2012.

England need only to avoid defeat to qualify at the co-hosts' expense after beating Sweden 3-2 Friday, while Ukraine must win following their 0-2 defeat to France.

"England traditionally plays well in the air, so we must be as ready as possible for their crosses from free-kicks and corners," Shevchenko said Friday.

England striker Wayne Rooney will return from suspension for the game, but Shevchenko warned his lack of match fitness could play into Ukraine's hands.

"Rooney is obviously extremely dangerous, but let's not forget he's missed a month," the ex-Chelsea striker said.

--IANS/RIA Novosti

sr/dg