'Seize the moment' is the message from England captain Steven Gerrard as he prepares to lead his side into battle with Italy on Sunday night with a place in the semi finals of Euro 2012 at stake.

The Three Lions haven't progressed to the last four of  a major tournament since hosting Euro 96 when they famously losing to Germany on penalties but Gerrard is confident they can put an end to that unwanted statistic in Kiev.

Despite being unbeaten in five games since Roy Hodgson's appointment as manager the 32-year-old admits England can leave nothing to chance against the 2006 World Champions if they are emerge victorious and prove the critics, that wrote them off prior to the finals, wrong.

"In previous tournaments we just haven't shown what we are capable of," he said. "But our performances are getting stronger in this competition.

"That is what gives me the belief and confidence that we can end this hoodoo that people talk about. I get told that not many of the current players have figured in quarter-finals, but they are all big-game players and are aware of what is required.

"It is important they seize the moment, seize the opportunity, because from experience, I know they don't come around very often.

"It is important nobody leaves anything out on the pitch and show the critics we are good enough to compete at this level."

Italy coach Cesare Prandelli wants his side to go into the clash 'without fear' as they aim to reach their first European Championship semi final since 2000 when they beat Holland on penalties before losing in extra time to hosts France in the final.

Prandelli revealed he's done his homework on England but warned his players that building an early momentum will be key to unsettling their opponents strategy which is built on efficient organisation off the ball.

"England are a very tough side and we must go into the game without fear – no psychological hang-ups," said Prandelli. "We must stay focused and wait for our opportunity.

"We've watched England's previous games and they're one of the most organised European sides. We need to make sure we stop them playing.

“They're going to produce a high tempo and put their foot in a lot, so if we can set the tempo then we can do well."

Team News

Roy Hodgson has his full 23-man squad to pick from but is likely to stick with the XI that beat Ukraine in their final Group C fixture meaning Danny Welbeck and Wayne Rooney will start up front again.

Giorgio Chiellini is absent after picking up a thigh injury in Monday's 2-0 win over Ireland with Leonardo Bonucci set to come in as Cesare Prandelli's only change.

Key Player

Scott Parker

It's astonishing that it's taken nine-years and three England managers to discover that the Tottenham enforcer is the perfect foil for Steven Gerrard in midfield. The loss of Frank Lampard has proved to be a blessing in disguise as Parker provides the steady platform for the Three Lions skipper to exert his influence further up field. His full blooded performances has seen him snap and snarl in the face of the opposition supplying a shield of armour for Roy Hodgson's back four. His matchup with Daniele De Rossi will be VERY interesting.

Andrea Pirlo

Limiting the influence of the Juventus midfielder will be easier said than done. The 33-year-old has rolled back the years in Poland and Ukraine displaying the guile and craft that made him one of the top midfielders in Europe. Pirlo's advancing years means he doesn't move around the field as freely as he used too but  England should ignore his vision and passing range at their own peril. He wasn't nicknamed "l'architetto" (the architect) for nothing.

Prediction: 2-1 (AET)

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