Striker Jermain Defoe says England would be happy to take a draw from Wednesday's World Cup qualifier against Croatia in Zagreb.

Croatia have never lost a competitive game at the Maksimir Stadium and they beat England in Euro 2008 qualifying.

"A draw would be a great result in Croatia," said Defoe. "We have to be strong and believe we are going to win because it is a massive game.

"But the most important thing is to get a result."

England are second in Group Six after beating Andorra 2-0 in their opening qualifier on Saturday. Croatia top the group following their 3-0 win against Kazakhstan.

Fabio Capello's men know from experience that their results against Croatia are likely to have a significant bearing on their hopes of progressing to South Africa in 2010.

The Croats beat England home and away en route to Euro 2008, their win at Wembley in November ending England's bid to reach the finals in Austria and Switzerland.

"We owe Croatia one. Our two results against them cost us in the end," said Defoe.

"They were both huge disappointments and it does not matter what sport you play, if you lose to someone, you want to beat them next time round.

"We will be ready this time," he added. "I do not want to feel like that again. It was a horrible experience (missing out of Euro 2008).

"We know Croatia are excellent at home. We know they are a good side with good players.

"But man for man I honestly believe we are better. It is down to us to show those qualities."