England striker Jermain Defoe is expecting a tough match against Moldova and believes the first goal will be vital.

England begin their 2014 World Cup qualifying campaign this Friday and the Spurs forward has warned his team-mates not to take the hosts lightly.

"I have played in a number of games against the so-called smaller countries and it is difficult to get the first goal.

"It will be a difficult game, when we get the first goal we can go and get the second," he said.

England will be without Wayne Rooney for the clash with reports suggesting that Roy Hodgson could elect to play just one striker.