England skipper Steven Gerrard has led the welcome party for Gareth Barry as City's midfielder returns for the crucial World Cup game against Algeria in Cape Town tonight.

Barry had to sit out the opening 1-1 Group C draw with the USA after damaging ankle ligaments in the last week of the season but will take up the holding role in a must-win tie.

Gerrard, England's fourth-minute scorer last weekend, said: "I should imagine I will be playing in a more attacking role and that suits me, I'm looking forward to it.

"It's great to have Gareth back fit and available, he's a terrific passer and calm in possession, so hopefully he'll give us that protection the two centre-halves need.

“He's been fantastic over a couple of years for England and I'm really pleased to have him back, he certainly strengthens the side."

England manager Fabio Capello, who confirmed Gareth's comeback earlier this week, said: "He is OK, there is no problem. He has trained very well and he is fit. Barry is an important player because he is, for us, a holding player in front of the back four."

Shaun Wright-Phillips will hope to make another contribution after replacing James Milner in the first half against the USA, but Joe Hart is likely to miss out behind David James in goal.

England must beat Algeria if they are to top the group. Capello said: "I do think we played well against USA, aside from the first 15 minutes. We created seven chances to score, but we did not. This is the main problem. We will have to address that."