England captain John Terry believes it is important his side get off to a winning start against the United States at next year's World Cup.

Fabio Capello's side were paired with the USA and Slovenia - two sides they know reasonably well - and African play-off winners Algeria, about who the manager admitted he knows "nothing".

Terry told thefa.com: "I was with my England and Chelsea team-mates Frank (Lampard), Joe (Cole) and Ashley (Cole) watching the draw.

"We had just landed at Manchester ahead of our match against Manchester City and watched the teams drawn from the bus on our way to the team hotel.

"It's obviously very exciting with some great fixtures.

"As far as England are concerned we are familiar with two of our opponents - USA and Slovenia - and know their players well. Hopefully this will help us prepare for those games."

Terry added: "England have never played Algeria and of course they got through to the finals with a play-off victory over Egypt.

"But for me, it's all about that first game and getting off to a good start. Every team's opening group match is important and we're no different - it's a big game."

England last played the United States in 2005, winning 2-1 in Chicago. They beat Slovenia in September this year at Wembley, also by a 2-1 scoreline.