Prince William addresses Capello, Gerrard via video link

Prince William addresses Capello, Rooney via video

RUSTENBERG, South Africa — Prince William has tried to raise spirits among English players as the World Cup squad reels from the loss of captain Rio Ferdinand to a left knee injury.

The prince addressed coach Fabio Capello as well as new captain Steven Gerrard, striker Wayne Rooney and defender John Terry via video link on Friday shortly after Ferdinand was injured in training.

After speaking to them from Wembley Stadium, William said that “despite Rio Ferdinand’s injury, which is a disappointment for Rio himself and the England team, morale in the team is high.”

William will be traveling to Cape Town to watch the second match against Algeria on June 18 and help promote England’s bid to host the 2018 World Cup.