Gareth Barry is ready to scratch an eight-year itch on Friday night.

The Blues’ midfielder has missed out on the last two World Cups and had to fidget on the bench as England drew with the USA in their opener but he is fully fit and raring to go when England meet Algeria in their crucial second encounter on Friday night.

And the 29-year-old has assured millions of fans back home that the squad remains in fine fettle despite the early loss of two points.

“We are upbeat,” declared Barry who will be winning his 37th cap if selected against Algeria.

“My ankle has been fine for ten days. I should be spot on for Friday. I felt like a World Cup might never come.”

Barry revealed that the squad had watched Germany demolish Australia in its opening game in Group C.

The Three Lions will play either the first or second team from that section should they qualify for the round of sixteen and Barry admits they have had one eye trained on events in Group D.

“We watched Germany and we were really impressed,” he declared.

“They turn up when it matters. We are watching that group closely. It is important that we study the possible opposition. But our aim is still to finish top in our group.”

Barry revealed, in a BBC interview, that the England squad are managing to relax and have some fun but maintain the strong discipline for which Fabio Capello is renowned.

The City star revealed that golf, darts, pool and snooker are the favoured ways of passing time in the camp after training.