ENGLAND'S star man against Nigeria came off the pitch this morning and vowed: "Now we prepare to face Denmark."

Leeds defender Rio Ferdinand was inspired at the back in the 0-0 draw and he confessed it had been a battle with the heat as much as with the opposition.

"It was hot stuff out there. That is the hottest I have ever played in and all the players came off with their feet burning but we got through it," he explained.

"We knew it would not be easy because they were playing for pride but when we came out here everyone was saying we would not get out of the group.

"We have and now we have to be ready for Denmark.

"We have watched them on television and they have done very well beating the World Champions France.

"It will be another tough game but we are looking forward to it."

England's half of the draw had looked the tougher one but the shock exits for France and Argentina have opened it up.

"The fact they have gone out shows there are no easy games at this level now," said Ferdinand who was masterful at the back.

David Beckham had a poor game by his own high standards but he is also looking forward to the next match on Saturday lunch time.

"It was not comfortable because of the heat but we still made a few chances," he said.

"We know a fair bit about Denmark and they are a bit like Sweden so maybe that will suit us.

"We always said that if we got through the Group of Death, then we would see what would happen. I think we are building momentum and none of us can wait until Saturday."