Roy Hodgson said reaching next summer's World Cup in Brazil was his proudest moment in football after England secured qualification with victory over Poland at Wembley.


Goals from Wayne Rooney and captain Steven Gerrard ensured that England topped Group H to qualify.


Hodgson, 66, said: "To go to a World Cup in 1994 and a Euros in 1996 with Switzerland was pretty good.



England defender Leighton Baines


"Leighton Baines was outstanding again - especially in the first half when he created Wayne Rooney's goal. Can Roy Hodgson really justify recalling Ashley Cole? Man of the match."




"But I'm English. As an Englishman, it means a little bit more to you."


England had only beaten San Marino and Moldova before this week, but two good performances and wins against Montenegro and then Poland ensured that the Three Lions qualified for their fifth consecutive World Cup finals.


Hodgson had admitted before Tuesday's game that he was anxious about qualifying and said he was relieved his team had not let the country down.


"I don't think you can help but feel the pressure because we know how important it is to so many people," Hodgson said.


"I died a thousand deaths every time Poland crossed the halfway line, which is what you do but I do think this team is growing now.




England players excited by Brazil



"England's a very big football nation. So many people are desperate to see England participate and hopefully do well in a World Cup so we knew that it was on our shoulders to make certain that we didn't disappoint them.


"The pressure is always from the outside and it weighs upon you because you know that you sometimes needs that little bit of luck."


New Football Association chairman Greg Dyke effectively dismissed England's hopes of winning next year's tournament shortly after his appointment - but buoyant manager Hodgson will travel in hope.


Hodgson said: "First of all you've always got a chance. It is the old thing about if you want to win the lottery you have to buy a lottery ticket.


"We have got our ticket so that in itself is good.


"But as yet in all the years of World Cup football no European team has ever won in South America. If we do that we'll be really pushing the boat out."