Prince William consoles Eng

Rustenburg - Prince William has spoken to the England camp via video link, and tried to lift the spirits of the team following the loss of injured captain Rio Ferdinand.

The prince addressed coach Fabio Capello and the players on Friday, shortly after Ferdinand was injured in training and ruled out of the tournament.

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 team's second match against Algeria on June 18.

England also play the United States and Slovenia in Group C.