John Terry insists training without Ledley King will not be a problem if they line up alongside each other at the World Cup.
Following the injury to Three Lions skipper Rio Ferdinand on Friday, coach Fabio Capello must decide who will partner Terry in the heart of the England defence.
His side take on the United States in their opening Group C clash in Rustenburg on Saturday, and speculation has mounted that King will get the nod for a starting berth.
The Spurs centre-half has chronic knee problems which limit his training opportunities, but he is confident he can get through the rigours of a World Cup.
Terry and King played the first 45 minutes against the Platinum Stars on Monday and the former England captain is confident they can form a solid partnership.
"We've got a good understanding. I think everyone knows we used to play together at (amateur London side) Senrab many years ago," he told Sky Sports News.
"The understanding is there and always has been. We've worked a few times in training as well so we understand each other's games and each other really well.
"It was important we got 45 minutes in a real competitive game, it was nice.
"He still does a lot of gym work and pool work which is good for his fitness.
"He is always on the side of the pitch watching on which the manager wants.
"If he changes his tactics or certain things Ledley is right involved and knows what is happening if called upon."
England came out on top 3-0 against the Platinum Stars thanks to goals from Jermain Defoe, Joe Cole and Wayne Rooney.
Terry believes the team, now captained by Steven Gerrard, are in good shape ahead of the crunch tie at the weekend.
He added: "I think we're looking good. I think we needed this game - that was clear.
"I think a few positives came from the game as well - we needed to get used to the flight of the ball in match tempo conditions.
"The altitude and the lads drying up and needing water - things like that are really important to get used to before our first game."
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