England defender Joleon Lescott has stated that a tough qualifying group could actually be a benefit to the nation come the World Cup.

The Three Lions have dropped points against Ukraine and Poland so far in their bid to reach the 2014 tournament in Brazil, and are caught in a dogfight for qualification.

However, the Manchester City defender feels that a number of difficult games in qualification could actually be good preparation for the finals in South America.

“In previous qualifiers, we have strolled through and not looked as effective when we’ve got there," The Sun quote Lescott as saying.

“Maybe if we struggle to get there, but we do get to Brazil, hopefully it will be an easier campaign.

“We knew it was going to be tough against Poland. It is not an easy place to come to but we dug in to get a point,' he commented.

Lescott is an important player for Roy Hodgson's side following the retirement of John Terry, and has started to form a partnership with Phil Jagielka in the heart of England's defence.

Lescott has stated that he enjoys playing alongside the Everton man, and is eyeing a long-term run in the side.

“If the manager believes me and Jags can make the positions ours, then great and hopefully we can do that.

“We grew up together and there is a trust," he concluded.

England's next fixture is a friendly match against Sweden in November, before World Cup qualifying restarts in the new year.