Luis Suarez believes that the Liverpool connection means Uruguay's World Cup meeting with England later this month is the most anticipated match of the tournament in his country.

The two nations clash on June 19 in Sao Paulo, having been drawn alongside fellow heavyweights Italy in Group D - arguably the toughest section of the competition's group stage.

Eight Reds players have been selected in the respective squads, with Suarez joined by centre-back Sebastian Coates in the 23-man pool picked by the reigning South American champions.

Meanwhile, Steven Gerrard, Jordan Henderson, Glen Johnson, new signing Rickie Lambert, Raheem Sterling and Daniel Sturridge provide a strong Liverpool element to the Three Lions contingent.

"This is the game everyone is looking forward to most here," Suarez, who scored three goals at the last edition in 2010, explained to The Guardian.

"It's incredible to see how Uruguayans have followed Liverpool; they've become fans and that makes me feel very proud.

"To see an entire country waiting on the Liverpool games is incredible or to see people angry because they can't watch it because it's only on satellite TV. People are getting up early in the morning to watch us play.

"I've already told Gerrard that we'll swap shirts. And Glen will ask for my shirt, I'm sure. Maybe Daniel and Raheem will as well. I'll take a few with me."

England could feasibly kick off their World Cup campaign - which begins against Italy on June 14 - with five representatives from Liverpool in Roy Hodgson's starting XI.

Given the electrifying performances of those individuals for the Reds during 2013-14, many observers have suggested that the national team should try to emulate that style.

Suarez said: "A World Cup is always different but my teammates are playing very well and they could play a similar role for England as they have for Liverpool.

"I was particularly pleased when I heard that Raheem and Jordan were in the squad. I got hold of them to send messages saying 'congratulations'.

"A year ago there were people who didn't rate them and now, because they played so well this season, they've been called up.

"For Raheem, who's so young, it will be a wonderful experience. England have a nice mix of experience and youth this time; in previous years, there were players who were maybe a bit past their best.

"Now there are players coming through with hunger to succeed. We have to be very careful."

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