Cabaye fears Gerrard

France midfielder Yohan Cabaye says Steven Gerrard will be England's main threat in Monday's Euro 2012 opener in Donetsk.



Cabaye admits he was hugely impressed by the Liverpool and England captain last season.

Cabaye said: "Who do we fear most? Steven Gerrard is a very important player, very powerful and an inspirational player, a leader.

"He is the soul of this team, the captain, and will be like a king in this game.



"He can be very aggressive going forward but defensively he is also important. It is important to try and nullify him.



"But England have some good young players and I've also been impressed by Danny Welbeck."

Cabaye says France must take advantage of Wayne Rooney's absence.

Cabaye said: "Rooney is a player of great quality and will be a great miss for them.

"It is significant for us as well as for England that he will not be there on Monday.

"But the English team is very strong and we can't tell for sure what will be the outcome of this match.



"Some people say we are favourites but the English team, even with their injuries recently, is very strong and Ukraine will be as well at home."