First Things First: Southgate Refuses To Play Guessing Game

Last updated : 27 June 2018 By Three Lions

England manager Gareth Southgate has eyes for Belgium on Thursday only as supporters and pundits alike speculate on whether it will be better for the Three Lions to finish first or second in their World Cup 2018 group.

“We have not won a knockout game since 2006," he said ahead of the Kaliningrad clash between two sides with maximum points from their matches to date.

"Why we are starting to plot which would be a better venue for our semi-final is beyond me.

“We have no idea who, when or where we will play in the next round but we are pleased that we’re in the next round."

Although Southgate has said he will alter his side for the game, wholesale changes are unlikely.

Belgium meanwhile will be without striker Romelu Lukaku as an ankle injury sustained against Tunisia means the Manchester United man will not be risked ahead of the knockout stages.