Bougherra to use British experience versus England

Algeria defender Madjid Bougherra says his experience with British clubs will help him counter England's attack when the two teams meet at the World Cup.

The powerful center back has been with Rangers in Scotland since 2008 and previously played for English clubs Crewe Alexandra, Sheffield Wednesday and Charlton.

``It can help me,'' Bougherra said Friday. ``I play in a big team, I played Champions League so I have learned a mentality change - I want to win every game.''

Rangers fans voted him the team's player of the year in his first season, as the Glasgow club won the Scottish league and cup double.

``It is British football so this can help me with England,'' Bougherra said.

Algeria starts its World Cup on Sunday against Slovenia in Group C before playing England on June 18 and United States five days later.

Bougherra is a skillful defender who likes to push forward with the ball and can play in midfield if called upon.

``I can play as a striker or defender, no problem,'' he joked after training in this town south of Durban. ``I play for my country and the coach decides.''

Bougherra has played 41 times for Algeria since his debut in 2004, scoring three goals.

Algeria is playing in its third World Cup and first in 24 years and is hoping to progress beyond the first round for the first time.

While England and the United States are expected to progress from the group, Algeria could spring a surprise - it beat African champions Egypt in a highly charged playoff to reach the World Cup.

``We have nothing to lose,'' he said. ``We have no pressure.''

Bougherra was born in Dijon, France, to Algerian parents and could have declared himself for France, but has no regrets about his decision.

``I had no choice,'' he said. ``I am Algerian in my heart.''