Jordan Henderson believes Raheem Sterling's boldness and bravery will count as a bonus for England at the World Cup.

The Liverpool midfielder, who played alongside the 19-year-old as he dazzled Barclays Premier League defenders last season, is confident his teammate for club and country can replicate his fine form on football's biggest stage.

Sterling, who missed England's final warm-up game against Honduras due to suspension, has already displayed his dynamism during friendlies for the Three Lions.

"You've seen that in the Premier League and even when he's played for England," said Henderson.

"He's outstanding. He has no fear. For such a young boy he's got great awareness and his knowledge of the game is really good.

"He can be a big plus for us in this World Cup. He can go as far as he wants to go.

"He's got a good head on his shoulders, got good people around him, so he's just got to keep working hard. I'm sure he'll go right to the very top. He'll be a top, top player.

"He will have been disappointed he could not feature against Honduras but in training he's looked very, very good, so he'll be thriving on this."

England kick off their World Cup campaign against Italy in Manaus on Saturday, before facing a Luis Suarez-inspired Uruguay five days later.

The Three Lions round off their Group D action by tackling Costa Rica on June 24 in Belo Horizonte.