England World Cup squad LIVE: Gareth Southgate explains selection of James Maddison and Conor Gallagher

Gareth Southgate has revealed his 26-man England squad for World Cup in Qatar.

Harry Kane will lead the Three Lions as they aim to go one better than at Euro 2020 a year ago and emulate the heroes of 1966 and the women’s side who lifted a major trophy in the European Championship in the summer.

James Maddison is the headline inclusion with his red-hot form for Leicester City enough to force his way in despite not winning an international cap since 2019 with Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher also in.

Callum Wilson is also rewarded for his fine domestic form with a place on the plane as one of Kane’s striking back-ups alongside Newcastle teammates Nick Pope and Kieran Trippier. The likes of James Ward-Prowse, Fikayo Tomori and Marc Guehi have all been overlooked.

You can get daily World Cup updates direct to your phone throughout the tournament by joining our World Cup channel.

England World Cup squad announcement updates

• Gareth Southgate reveals his 26-man England squad for Qatar

• Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher selected first World Cup but James Ward-Prowse not included

• Leicester star James Maddison comes in from the cold to make squad

• Southgate believes Maddison will offer England “something different” in Qatar

• Callum Wilson selected as back-up striker but Tammy Abraham misses out

• Fikayo Tomori and Marc Guehi have missed out with Conor Coady selected

• Southgate describes under-fire Harry Maguire as “one of our best centre-backs”

Gareth Southgate admits Tammy Abraham’s ‘poor run of scoring’ cost him England World Cup squad place

17:20 , Michael Jones

Gareth Southgate admits Tammy Abraham’s “poor run of scoring” ultimately cost him a place in the England squad for the World Cup.

Southgate preferred Callum Wilson as back-up to Harry Kane when releasing his 26-man squad for the tournament in Qatar.

The Newcastle forward has hit six goals and made two more in the Premier League this season, with Abraham scoring just his third Serie A goal against Sassuolo last night, with one assist.

“Tammy has had a poor run of scoring form at the wrong time,” Southgate admitted. “It’s not a case where we’re three to four weeks away from the finals, we’re 10 days.”

Gareth Southgate explains Tammy Abraham omission from England World Cup squad

Five biggest England omissions ahead of Qatar

17:10 , Michael Jones

England manager Gareth Southgate has announced his 26-man squad for the Qatar World Cup.

The Three Lions will be led by captain Harry Kane, while the likes of Raheem Sterling, Declan Rice and Jordan Pickford were all automatic selections following England’s run to the Euro 2020 final last summer.

Several regulars such as Kyle Walker and Kalvin Phillips have overcome fitness concerns to be included, but Reece James and Ben Chilwell are among those to be denied a spot due to injury.

Southgate has also included a couple of late bolters, with the in-form trio of Ben White, James Maddison and Callum Wilson all receiving recalls to the national side just in time to make the plane.

However, it means there is no place for some players who have featured in recent squads, only to be left out at the last moment. Here’s a look at some of the biggest omissions ahead of the tournament.

The five biggest omissions from England’s World Cup squad

Who is in England’s World Cup squad for Qatar 2022 and who missed out?

17:00 , Michael Jones

England’s squad has been confirmed for the World Cup.

With 11 days to go until the Three Lions kick-off their Group B campaign against Iran, Gareth Southgate has revealed the 26-man group that will be travelling to the Gulf next week.

The boss has largely stuck with the tried and tested, with the most eye-catching selections being Leicester attacking midfielder James Maddison and Newcastle striker Callum Wilson.

Maddison’s only England cap came as a substitute against Montenegro in November 2019 - the last squad four-cap Wilson was involved in.

Here’s who made the cut for Qatar:

Who is in England’s World Cup squad and who missed out?

Gareth Southgate takes considered yet significant risk with James Maddison selection

16:55 , Michael Jones

Strangely, the headline from this World Cup squad announcement was always likely to be the inclusion or non-inclusion of a player with a grand total of one international cap. James Maddison has become the type of English cause celebre that always seems to emerge on the eve of a major tournament, his unpredictable, mercurial abilities providing a skeleton key to unlock defences in Qatar. Given Gareth Southgate’s supposed safety-first nature, many expected that he would be overlooked. Instead, he will go to the World Cup.

Southgate’s inclusion of Maddison is the biggest surprise in his 26-man selection and appears to belie a reputation for standing by trusted, familiar faces. The Leicester City playmaker was the only fully fit player included in this squad to receive a call from Southgate on the morning of the announcement. The England manager wanted to reassure him that, despite speculation that he would miss out, he was in. “We’d decided a couple of weeks ago but weren’t going to tell him then,” Southgate revealed.

It would be unfair to suggest that this represents a sudden change of heart on Southgate’s part. “He’s a good player. We’ve always said he’s a good player,” he insisted, adding that fitness troubles and tactical set-ups have prevented Maddison being called up in the past, but there is no doubt that the biggest difference now is that his performances are too good to ignore. “He’s earned the right,” said the England manager. “I think he’s playing as well as any of the attacking players in this country.”

Gareth Southgate takes considered yet significant risk with James Maddison selection

England World Cup squad confirmed for Qatar 2022

16:50 , Michael Jones

James Maddison is the surprise inclusion in England‘s World Cup squad after Gareth Southgate confirmed his 26-man selection for the tournament in Qatar.

The Leicester City playmaker’s only previous cap came almost three years ago but his excellent form at club level since the turn of the year has earned a recall.

Marcus Rashford is also named in the squad despite his last international appearance coming in the Euro 2020 final’s penalty shoot-out defeat to Italy.

Callum Wilson‘s recent performances for Newcastle United have seen him win the race to provide cover for Harry Kane, with Tammy Abraham and Ivan Toney missing out.

James Ward-Prowse, Jarrod Bowen, Fikayo Tomori and Marc Guehi have also been overlooked by Southgate, though Ben White and Conor Gallagher return having been omitted from the squad for September’s Nations League internationals.

England World Cup squad confirmed for Qatar 2022

Gareth Southgate on James Maddison

16:40 , Michael Jones

Gareth Southgate keeps the faith – the numbers behind England’s World Cup squad

16:30 , Michael Jones

Gareth Southgate named England’s 26-man World Cup squad on Thursday, 11 days ahead of their tournament opener against Iran.

Here, the PA news agency looks at how Southgate’s selection compares with previous squads, and which players are most likely to be battling fatigue:

Gareth Southgate keeps the faith – the numbers behind England’s World Cup squad

‘It’s an honour’ says Foden

16:19 , Michael Jones

Manchester City’s Phil Foden says it is an honour to get selected for England and take part in his first World Cup. He also seems very excited to get started.

More from Gareth Southgate

16:09 , Michael Jones

“In 2018 we were at the start of something where we hadn’t won a knockout game for 10 years and there was a little bit less experience in the group for big matches.

“I think this is similar in terms of its standing to the group that went to the Euros and we’re excited by the group.

“We think there’s a lot of exciting talent in it but the whole group has got to come together. It’s a unique situation for everybody this tournament, the timing of it.

“We’ve got to adapt better than everyone else in this coming period.”

William Saliba wants to emulate Arsenal legends with World Cup win with France

16:00 , Michael Jones

William Saliba is aiming to follow in the footsteps of Patrick Vieira and Emmanuel Petit by becoming the latest Arsenal player to win the World Cup with France.

The 21-year-old was called up as part of France’s 25-man squad which will travel to Qatar next week looking to retain the trophy they lifted for a second time in 2018.

Saliba revealed he discovered he had been called up for the finals just moments before the warm-up ahead of Arsenal’s 3-1 Carabao Cup third-round defeat to Brighton on Wednesday night.

He already has seven senior caps, making his debut earlier this year while on loan at Marseille and continuing to impress having finally broken into the Arsenal side at the start of the season.

It was France’s first World Cup win in 1998 which saw Petit score and Vieira run the midfield as the hosts beat Brazil in the final.

William Saliba wants to emulate Arsenal legends with World Cup win with France

James Maddison ‘full of joy’ after England World Cup call-up

15:52 , Michael Jones

James Maddison endured a nervous wait to find out whether he had made England’s World Cup squad after missing a call from boss Gareth Southgate on Thursday morning.

The Leicester midfielder was named in the 26-man squad that will go to Qatar after an impressive run of form this season.

There were large question marks over his place having played just 36 minutes for the Three Lions under Southgate, with stories as late as Wednesday night suggesting he was not in the squad, but he is on the plane.

Foxes boss Brendan Rodgers revealed that Maddison had to phone Southgate back from his office to get the news he was going.

James Maddison ‘full of joy’ after England World Cup call-up

A proud moment for Kane

15:45 , Michael Jones

Harry Kane was the first name on the list for England’s squad. He’s the captain and main striker and says that leading the team at a second World Cup is another proud moment for him:

Rodgers ‘delighted’ for Maddison

15:40 , Michael Jones

Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers says he is delighted that James Maddison has been selected for England’s World Cup squad saying:

“His level of consistency and the work ethic and what he has proven over the last few years has swung that decision for him.

“I’m really delighted for him. I’ve always seen in James the desire to improve and be the best that he can be. When I spoke to him it was about progressing and developing so it’s great news for him and great for his country.

“The most important thing for James is getting to the World Cup and you never know what will happen.

“He’s in the mix and I’m delighted for him.”

A childhood dream come true

15:36 , Michael Jones

Bukayo Saka says it was his childhood dream to pay in a World Cup and thanks to his inclusion in Gareth Southgate’s squad he’s made that dream come true.

Poland’s confirmed World Cup squad

15:32 , Michael Jones

Given all the excitement around the England squad announcement, it would be easy to miss that Poland have also confirmed their 26-man World Cup squad.

Here it is:

Goalkeepers: Wojciech Szczęsny (Juventus), Łukasz Skorupski (Bologna), Bartłomiej Drągowski (Spezia)

Defenders: Jan Bednarek (Aston Villa), Bartosz Bereszyński (Sampdoria), Matty Cash (Aston Villa), Kamil Glik (Benevento), Robert Gumny (Augsburg), Artur Jędrzejczyk (Legia Warsaw), Jakub Kiwior (Spezia), Mateusz Wieteska (Clermont), Nicola Zalewski (Roma)

Midfielders: Krystian Bielik (Birmingham City), Przemysław Frankowski (RC Lens), Kamil Grosicki (Pogoń Szczecin), Jakub Kamiński (VfL Wolfsburg),Grzegorz Krychowiak (Al-Shabab Riyadh), Michał Skóraś (Lech Poznan), Damian Szymański (AEK Athens), Sebastian Szymański (Feyenoord), Piotr Zieliński (Napoli), Szymon Å»urkowski (Fiorentina)

Forwards: Robert Lewandowski (Barcelona), Arkadiusz Milik (Juventus), Krzysztof Piątek (US Salernitana 1919), Karol Świderski (Charlotte FC)

Gareth Southgate admits Tammy Abraham’s ‘poor run of scoring’ cost him England World Cup squad place

15:28 , Michael Jones

Gareth Southgate admits Tammy Abraham’s “poor run of scoring” ultimately cost him a place in the England squad for the World Cup.

Southgate preferred Callum Wilson as back-up to Harry Kane when releasing his 26-man squad for the tournament in Qatar.

The Newcastle forward has hit six goals and made two more in the Premier League this season, with Abraham scoring just his third Serie A goal against Sassuolo last night, with one assist.

Gareth Southgate explains Tammy Abraham omission from England World Cup squad

'Maddison forced his way into the squad’

15:23 , Michael Jones

Gary Linekar agrees that James Maddison deserves his place in the England squad and says that his brilliant performances for Leicester this season have forced Gareth Southgate to include him.

Gareth Southgate explains why James Maddison made England’s 26-man World Cup squad

15:18 , Michael Jones

Gareth Southgate has explained why James Maddison has made England’s 26-man football World Cup squad, after weeks of speculation over the midfielder’s selection.

The Leicester star is one of the headline inclusions in the team and Southgate explained that his form in the buildup to Qatar helped him secure a spot on the plane.

“He’s playing really well. He’s earned the right. We think he can give us something slightly different to the other attacking players that we’ve got,” the manager said of his decision.

Ivan Toney and Fikayo Tomori, however, have been overlooked.

Gareth Southgate explains why James Maddison made England’s 26-man World Cup squad

Gareth Southgate press conference

15:14 , Michael Jones

Given all the discussions, debates and protests around the World Cup taking place in Qatar this year, Gareth Southgate was asked whether he could focus just on the football.

“I think that’s highly unlikely. We have always spoken about issues that we think should always be spoken about.” he said,

“Contrary to one or two observations we have spoken about the human rights challenges and been very clear on that. We would also like to focus primarily on the focus for every player, coach and everyone travelling.

“It’s a carnival of football and you don’t want that to be diminished by everything going on but we recognise that we will be in that situation.”

Gareth Southgate press conference

15:09 , Michael Jones

England boss Gareth Southgate on LGBT+ and human rights in Qatar: “We stand for inclusivity and that is important for all our supporters and we understand that. If it wasn’t for the strength of that community, we wouldn’t be Women’s European Champions.

“With Iran, it’s a political situation that I don’t know enough about and I can’t comment with enough authority to give you a view.”

When is England’s first World Cup game?

15:00 , Michael Jones

England have announced their 26-man squad for the World Cup 2022 in Qatar and attention now turns to their opening game.

Gareth Southgate named a number of surprise inclusions in his group, as James Maddison comes in from the cold, Conor Gallagher gets the nod ahead of James Ward-Prowse in midfield, while Callum Wilson is preferred to Tammy Abraham up front.

The Three Lions are favourites to emerge from Group B in Qatar, with Iran, Wales and USA providing their opponents.

The World Cup begins on Sunday November 20 and England will play for the first time the following day, lining up against Iran for the first time in their history.

Here’s everything you need to know about the opening game:

When do England play their first World Cup game?

Gareth Southgate announces England World Cup squad

14:55 , Michael Jones

10 Premier League clubs represented:

14:52 , Michael Jones

Manchester City: Walker, Stones, Phillips, Foden, Grealish

Newcastle: Pope, Trippier, Wilson

Man Utd: Maguire, Shaw, Rashford

Chelsea: Mount, Gallagher, Sterling

Arsenal: Ramsdale, White, Saka

Liverpool: Alexander-Arnold, Henderson

Spurs: Kane, Dier

Everton: Coady

Leicester: Maddison

West Ham: Rice

Gareth Southgate press conference

14:47 , Michael Jones

Loyalty or consistency?

Southgate on Phillips and Walker

14:44 , Michael Jones

Gareth Southgate’s press conference continues with the England boss explaining why he decided to call-up Kalvin Phillips and Kyle Walker despite both players’ recent injuries.

“Kalvin played last night; he is free of injury. We are aware he is not going to be able to play seven 90 minutes, that won’t be possible. But he is available.

“We don’t really have a lot of cover for that role in the country. Kalvin is a super player and we feel it is a risk worth taking. Kyle is not back in full training but will be available before the end of the group stage.

“We made a very difficult call with Reece [James], he is a fantastic player. He wasn’t going to be available, if everything went perfectly, until the latter stages. There are too many unknowns, and it would be deemed arrogant to take a player who can’t play in the groups in some circles.”

Mount is excited

14:40 , Michael Jones

Mason Mount is delighted by his call-up and is looking forward to playing a part in the World Cup this year.

Who is in England’s World Cup squad for Qatar 2022 and who missed out?

14:35 , Michael Jones

England’s squad has been confirmed for the World Cup 2022.

With 11 days to go until the Three Lions kick-off their Group B campaign against Iran, Gareth Southgate has confirmed the 26-man group that will be travelling to the Gulf next week.

The boss has largely stuck with the tried and tested, with the most eye-catching selections being Leicester attacking midfielder James Maddison and Newcastle striker Callum Wilson.

Maddison’s only England cap came as a substitute against Montenegro in November 2019 - the last squad four-cap Wilson was involved in.

Here’s who made the cut for Qatar:

Who is in England’s World Cup squad and who missed out?

Gareth Southgate press conference

14:30 , Michael Jones

Southgate is asked about selecting Harry Maguire given his limited game time.

“Harry Maguire is one of our best centre-backs” comes the reply. Pretty simple really.

Gareth Southgate press conference

14:28 , Michael Jones

Reece James hoped for a chance to prove his fitness and perhaps get fit enough to play a part in the knockout rounds of the tournament - should England make it that far.

Gareth Southgate decided that he couldn’t risk a spot to include the Chelsea right-back saying: “There were too many unknowns.

“I don’t think we can take a player who’s not available for the group. That would be deemed arrogant in some circles... and you’d be dropping him into a quarter-final.”

Gareth Southgate press conference

14:24 , Michael Jones

Southgate on Maddison’s forcing his way into the squad: “He’s playing really well... he’s earned the right.

“Look, he’s a good player, We’ve always said he’s a good player. We think he can give us something different to the various attacking players we’ve got.

“He is playing as well as any of the attacking players in this country.”

Gareth Southgate press conference

14:22 , Michael Jones

Southgate says that with this World Cup taking place in the middle of the season form could play an important factor in how well the team does.

Which would explain Callum Wilson’s inclusion over Tammy Abraham and why James Maddison has been given the nod.

Gareth Southgate press conference

14:18 , Michael Jones

The England boss has made his way into the press room to talk about his selections for the England squad.

‘We’ve wanted to make sure we got the balance of the squad right. You want different options for different stages in matches and for the tournament.’ says Southgate when asked whether this squad can win the World Cup.

What will England’s line-up be for first World Cup game vs Iran?

14:16 , Michael Jones

After Gareth Southgate named his England squad for the World Cup in Qatar, attention turns to the first game against Iran.

The Three Lions begin their Group B campaign against Carlos Queiroz’s side on 21 November at the Khalifa International Stadium.

With Iran likely to hand England the initiative here, Southgate is left with a dilemma concerning his formation and whether to open up in pursuit of goals or to drill a system that will become more common as the tournament develops against stronger opposition.

Southgate has included James Maddison in his squad, although the Leicester star is likely to be an option off the bench initially.

What will England’s line-up be for first World Cup game vs Iran?

England World Cup squad: Five biggest omissions ahead of Qatar

14:13 , Michael Jones

England manager Gareth Southgate has announced his 26-man squad for the Qatar World Cup.

The Three Lions will be led by captain Harry Kane, while the likes of Raheem Sterling, Declan Rice and Jordan Pickford were all automatic selections following England’s run to the Euro 2020 final last summer.

Several regulars such as Kyle Walker and Kalvin Phillips have overcome fitness concerns to be included, but Reece James and Ben Chilwell are among those to be denied a spot due to injury.

The five biggest omissions from England’s World Cup squad

England World Cup 2022 squad guide: Full fixtures, group, ones to watch, odds and more

14:10 , Michael Jones

Expectations are high, and hopes even higher, that England can pull off another superb run at a major tournament after reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020. Manager Gareth Southgate has instilled a confidence in his squad which has brought a belief that England can finally win the World Cup again. That confidence is also reflected in the betting markets with the Three Lions third favourites to lift the trophy behind Brazil and France.

Yet faith in Southgate and his squad is not as strong as it was after England stumbled through this year’s Nations League campaign. No wins in six games with two defeats to Hungary and relegation from League A has put a sour note on Southgate’s time in charge and sends England heading into this important World Cup campaign on rocky footing. The pressure to perform well has increased and the manager’s decision-making, on and off the field, will be more firmly under the spotlight.

No more so than when he names the 26-man squad he will be taking to Qatar. Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling are dead certs and will be hoping to replicate their form from the past two tournaments with Jordan Pickford also secure of a starting place in goal. Jude Bellingham is pushing to tie down a starting berth but the question of where Phil Foden’s best position in the team is hasn’t been answered.

England World Cup 2022 squad guide, fixtures and ones to watch

England World Cup squad in full

14:06 , Michael Jones

Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal), Nick Pope (Newcastle)

Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Conor Coady (Everton), Eric Dier (Tottenham), Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Luke Shaw (Manchester United), John Stones (Manchester City), Kieran Trippier (Newcastle), Kyle Walker (Manchester City), Ben White (Arsenal)

Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (Borussia Dortmund), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Mason Mount (Chelsea), Kalvin Phillips (Manchester City), Declan Rice (West Ham United)

Forwards: Phil Foden (Manchester City), Jack Grealish (Manchester City), Harry Kane (Tottenham), James Maddison (Leicester City), Marcus Rashford (Manchester United), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Raheem Sterling (Chelsea), Callum Wilson (Newcastle United)

England World Cup squad announcement

14:01 , Michael Jones

Here it is!

The big news is that James Maddison, Conor Gallagher, Ben White and Callum Wilson are all included in the 26-man squad.

England World Cup squad: Gareth Southgate left with surprise complications

13:55 , Michael Jones

England manager Gareth Southgate will reveal his World Cup squad on Thursday having taken a final decision on the form and fitness of key players and those that made a late charge to be on the plane to Qatar.

All eyes will be on the national team’s social media channels at 2pm as the 26-strong selection heading to the Gulf is announced before the Three Lions boss explains his choices to the media at St George’s Park.

England’s Group B opener will be only 11 days away when Southgate reveals his squad for a tournament that has been unceremoniously wedged into the middle of the season.

Gareth Southgate left with surprise complications for England’s World Cup squad

Is Southgate the one?

13:49 , Michael Jones

Can Gareth Southgate actually lead England to World Cup glory?

The manager has come the closest so far since he took over the national side in 2016. The 52-year-old has taken the Three Lions to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020.

In the 76 matches he has been in charge, Southgate has won 46, drawn 17 and lost 13. This will be his third major tournament in charge, can he take England one step further this time around?

England World Cup squad: Will Southgate take a back-up left-back?

13:45 , Michael Jones

Ben Chilwell’s injury means he is going to miss the entire World Cup. As it stands Luke Shaw is the only specialised left-back expected to be included in the 26-man squad but will Gareth Southgate bring in a back-up?

Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell, Tottenham’s Ryan Sessegnon or even Newcastle’s Dan Burn could fit the bill, then there is the adaptable Kieran Trippier who has played there before for England.

Will something go for a specialist back-up or stick and twist with Trippier?

England ready to test themselves against ‘technically unbelievable’ Japan

13:37 , Michael Jones

Georgia Stanway expects England to face a tough test against “technically unbelievable” Japan in their friendly on Friday.

The Lionesses continue their preparations for the World Cup in Australia and New Zealand next year by facing Japan and then Norway at the Pinatar Arena in Spain.

And Stanway, who currently plays for German side Bayern Munich, is excited for the challenge that awaits the European champions.

“I think Japan are technically unbelievable. They’re almost like Spain in the way they pop the ball (around), the way they move,” she told Sky Sports.

England ready to test themselves against ‘technically unbelievable’ Japan

World Cup outright winner odds

13:33 , Michael Jones

Before Gareth Southgate makes his squad announcement, here’s a look at where England stand with the bookies to win the whole World Cup.

There’s no surprises that Brazil are the favourites but at 7/1 England are being well backed too.

Brazil: 4/1

Argentina: 11/2

France: 6/1

England: 7/1

Spain: 15/2

Germany: 10/1

Netherlands: 11/1

Portugal: 14/1

Belgium: 19/1

Denmark: 22/1

Uruguay, Croatia: 35/1

Switzerland, Mexico, Serbia: 90/1

USA, Wales: 125/1

Poland, Senegal: 175/1

Ecuador, 250/1

South Korea, Canada, Ghana, Japan, Cameroon, Morocco: 300/1

Iran, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Costa Rica, Tunisia, Australia: 500/1

Latest odds via Betfair

England World Cup squad: Maddison in?

13:28 , Michael Jones

Oh hello. The Telegraph’s Matt Law is reporting that James Maddison has been included in the 26-man squad.

That would be a big surprise despite all the noise saying he should be there. Maddison has made no secret of his desire to go to this year’s World Cup but he only has one cap at international level and hasn’t featured since 2019.

Wilson expected to be picked

13:24 , Michael Jones

Sky Sports News are reporting that Newcastle’s Callum Wilson will be confirmed in the squad for England leading more legitamacy to the earlier reports that this was the case.

Wilson’s inclusion means Ivan Toney and Tammy Abraham look set to miss out.

Neil Warnock chooses his squad

13:19 , Michael Jones

The ever reliable Neil Warnock has picked the players he would take to Qatar ahead of Gareth Southgate’s announcement. He’s even made an exceptional graphic to show off his picks.

Take a look:

Belgium confirmed World Cup squad

13:15 , Michael Jones

Roberto Martinez has named his Belgium squad for the World Cup. The Belgians will be hoping to capitalise on this great generation of players and hopefully win a major trophy.

This is the squad Martinez thinks can do it:

Sergi Canos: ‘We’re just normal people that like to help other people, and we can’

13:10 , Michael Jones

If social media often seems like quite a grim place, Brentford’s Sergi Canos offers quite a nice story. It shows the power of the medium, and the game itself.

As a boyhood Valencia fan, Canos had naturally been following his hero, Juan Mata. That has also led him to follow Common Goal, the collective social impact movement that enables people in football to donate one per cent of their earnings to community initiatives, and now has 250 players and managers from 50 nationalities, almost half of which are women. Canos had wanted to sign up but, rather humbly, felt he wasn’t a big enough player when Brentford were in the Championship. Common Goal’s Sam Cook had got wind of his interest, however, clicked on the player’s Instagram account and saw Canos already followed them. The next step was obvious. A message was sent, and Canos has now become the latest footballer to sign up to Common Goal.

“I’ve known Common Goal for a long time,” the 25-year-old tells The Independent. “And just the fact that we were making the step into the Premier League, it made me want to do bigger things.”

Sergi Canos: ‘We’re just normal people that like to help other people - and we can’

England World Cup squad: Callum Wilson selected?

13:05 , Michael Jones

The Telegraph’s Northern Football Writer Luke Edwards says that Newcastle’s Callum Wilson has been selected in Gareth Southgate’s squad ahead of Roma’s Tammy Abraham and Brentford’s Ivan Toney.

Wilson’s impressive form with Newcastle United will have been the deciding factor if it turns out that he’s been called up as the Magpies currently sit third in the Premier League with help from his six goals in 10 games.

England World Cup squad: Abraham or Wilson?

13:00 , Michael Jones

Gareth Southgate will be thinking hard about back-ups for Harry Kane in the striking department. Marcus Rashford can fill in there and looks set for a place on the plane after his resurgence in form. That leaves Tammy Abraham and Callum Wilson competing for a spot but who will Southgate back?

Abraham has just three goals this term but score last night for Roma to keep himself in the the forefront of Southgate’s thoughts. He is the man ‘in possession’ having been called up for England’s most recent squads but hasn’t performed brilliantly in his time with the Three Lions.

Wilson meanwhile has six goals in 10 Premier League games for Newcastle and his manager Eddie Howe revealed that the striker is desperate to go to the World Cup.

Wilson has just four England caps to his name and has not played for Southgate since 2019 so his inclusion seems like a long shot depsite his good form.

Morocco’s World Cup squad confirmed

12:52 , Michael Jones

Here is the confirmed 26-man squad for Morocco’s World Cup campaign:

Goalkeepers: Yassine Bounou (Sevilla), Munir Mohamedi (Al Wehda), Ahmed Reda Tagnaouti (Wydad AC)

Defenders: Achraf Hakimi (PSG), Noussair Mazraoui (Bayern Munich), Roman Saiss (Besiktas), Nayef Aguerd (West Ham), Badr Benoun (Qatar SC) Jawad El Yamiq (Real Valladolid), Achraf Dari (Brest), Yahia Attiyat Allah (Wydad AC)

Midfielders: Sofyan Amrabat (Fiorentina), Amine Harit (Marseille), Azzedine Ounahi (Angers), Ilias Chair (QPR), Selim Amallah (Standard Liege), Yahya Jabrane (Wydad AC), Abdelhamid Sabiri (Sampdoria), Bilal El Khannous (Genk)

Forwards: Hakim Ziyech (Chelsea), Youssef En-Nesyri (Sevilla), Abderrazak Hamdallah (Al-Ittihad), Abde Ezzalzouli (Osasuna), Sofiane Boufal (Angers), Zakaria Aboukhlal (Toulouse), Walid Cheddira (Bari)

I was never going to leave Joe Allen out of Wales’ World Cup squad says Page

12:45 , Michael Jones

Robert Page admits he was never going to leave out Joe Allen of Wales’ World Cup squad, even though doubts persist over whether the Swansea midfielder will be fit to play in the tournament.

Allen, who played at both Euro 2016 and Euro 2020, remains a key player for Wales at the age of 32 but has not played since damaging his hamstring on 17 September.

He was among a 26-man squad announced for this month’s tournament in Qatar on Wednesday as Page returned to his Rhondda roots to name Wales’ first World Cup group for 64 years.

Robert Page: I was never going to leave Joe Allen out of Wales’ World Cup squad

England’s World Cup squad: Our writers pick their 26 players for Qatar 2022

12:38 , Michael Jones

Gareth Southgate is set to announce his England squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar on Thursday.

The World Cup gets under way on 20 November and England will kick off their tournament the following day when they take on Iran at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha.

Southgate faces several selection dilemmas across the pitch as well as questions over the fitness of right backs Kyle Walker and Reece James, and Walker’s Manchester City teammate Kalvin Phillips. Ben Chilwell’s hamstring injury leaves England short of left-sided defenders, while there is growing clamour for James Maddison to be on the plane and a choice to be made over Harry Kane’s deputies up front.

But the increased squad capacity of 26 – up from 23 at the previous World Cup – does at least give Southgate some flexibility as he makes his final decision.

We asked 12 members of the Independent Sport team to cast their votes and come up with a joint 26-man selection. We divided the squad by goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders (deep-lying or box to box players), forwards (attacking midfielders and wingers), and strikers (No 9s).

England’s World Cup squad: Our writers pick their 26 players for Qatar

England World Cup squad: No James Ward-Prowse?

12:30 , Michael Jones

Unconfirmed rumours across social media say that James Ward-Prowse is set to miss out on a spot in Gareth’s Southgate’s World Cup squad.

Despite Southgate being an admirer of Ward-Prowse, the midfielder has scored just one goal for Southampton this season - during the opening fixture versus Tottenham - and hasn’t been able to replicate the form that got him an initial call-up.

Ward-Prowse banged in a penalty in yesterday’s Carabao Cup tie against Sheffield Wednesday but that may not be enough to earn him a spot in the 26.

England World Cup squad: Fikayo Tomori set to miss out?

12:20 , Michael Jones

Fikayo Tomori has reportedly missed out on England’s World Cup squad. The Telegraph report that the AC Milan defender is one of the unlucky ones.

Tomori is a Serie A champion and regular in the Champions League, but his performances might not be enough for the former Chelsea defender to make it.

Squad announcement expected at 2pm

12:15 , Michael Jones

Gareth Southgate is due to announce his England squad from 2pm this afternoon when it will become clear which 26 players will compete for the biggest trophy in football.

Rumours abound this morning about who is in and who has missed out but we’ll only know for certain later this afternoon.

Kalvin Phillips optimistic about making England’s World Cup squad after Man City cameo

12:05 , Jack Rathborn

Kalvin Phillips said he is optimistic he will make England’s World Cup squad after a comeback that he found both “amazing” and “nerve-wracking”.

The midfielder, who had been out for eight weeks after undergoing shoulder surgery, played 41 minutes as a substitute in Manchester City’s 2-0 Carabao Cup win over Chelsea.

Gareth Southgate will name his squad for the World Cup on Thursday and Phillips, who had only previously played 14 minutes for City, accepts he is still a doubt.

He said: “It’s an amazing feeling. It’s been a long time. I’m glad to get back out there and play with the lads. Without playing for a while, it’s nerve-wrecking stepping onto the pitch for one of my first appearances for the club. It felt good.”

Kalvin Phillips optimistic about making England’s World Cup squad after City cameo

Mario Gotze makes Germany return as Hansi Flick names World Cup squad

11:55 , Jack Rathborn

Germany have included Mario Gotze in their World Cup squad for Qatar 2022.

The hero from the 2014 final is back after a five-year absence from Die Mannschaft after rejuvenating his career with Eintracht Frankfurt.

Premier League stars Kai Havertz and Ilkay Gundogan are also among a star-studded squad, which also includes Leroy Sane and Antonio Rudiger.

Niclas Füllkrug is another eye-catching inclusion by Hansi Flick, with the Werder Bremen star uncapped.

Jonathan Tah, Robin Gosens, Benjamin Henrichs, Lukas Nmecha and Florian Neuhaus fail to make the cut.

Kai Havertz and Mario Gotze headline Germany World Cup squad

Germany’s confirmed World Cup squad

11:50 , Michael Jones

Germany announced their 26-man squad for the World Cup this morning and here it is in full:

Goalkeepers: Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich), Marc-Andre ter Stegen (Barcelona), Kevin Trapp (Eintracht Frankfurt)

Defenders: Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid), Niklas Sule (Borussia Dortmund), Thilo Kehrer (West Ham), Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund), Matthias Ginter (Freiburg), David Raum (RB Leipzig), Lukas Klostermann (RB Leipzig), Armel Bella-Kotchap (Southampton), Christian Gunter (Freiburg).

Midfielders: Ilkay Gundogan (Manchester City), Kai Havertz (Chelsea), Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich), Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund), Leon Goretzka (Bayern Munich), Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich), Julian Brandt (Borussia Dortmund), Jonas Hofmann (Borussia Monchengladbach), Karim-David Adeyemi (Borussia Dortmund), Niclas Füllkrug (Werder Bremen), Mario Gotze (Frankfurt)

Forwards: Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich), Serge Gnabry (Bayern Munich), Leroy Sane (Bayern Munich), Youssoufa Moukoko (Borussia Dortmund)

Joe Gomez in contention to make World Cup squad

11:45 , Jack Rathborn

Gareth Southgate could include Joe Gomez as part of his final 26-man England squad.

The Independent understands that the Liverpool defender is in the running to return to the Three Lions.

Gomez could provide cover at right-back, should Southgate opt for a back four, while Kyle Walker’s fitness means England require extra pace in reserve, which Gomez can offer.

Gomez last played for England in 2020 against Wales.

Fifa 23 predicts winners of 2022 World Cup - after getting last three correct

11:40 , Jack Rathborn

Argentina will win the World Cup in Qatar - according to Fifa 23.

The Albiceleste haven’t lifted the trophy since Diego Maradona inspired them to victory back in 1986 for a second title in their history.

Lionel Messi‘s side are one of the tournament favourites this time around after a hugely impressive South American qualifying campaign.

And according to a 32-team simulation using EA’s flagship title to play out all 64 matches, they do indeed come out on top with skipper Messi scoring in the final against rivals Brazil and taking home the Golden Boot as tournament top scorer.

If Argentine fans are looking for good omens, the Fifa game has actually correctly predicted the last three winners of the men’s tournament - Spain in 2010, Germany in 2014 and France last time around in 2018.

Fifa 23 predicts winners of 2022 World Cup - after getting last three correct

England World Cup squad hopeful James Justin faces scan after injury during Leicester Carabao Cup win

11:30 , Jack Rathborn

Leicester’s James Justin will have a scan on Wednesday to discover the extent of his injury after he was carried off against Newport.

The defender was forced off in the 3-0 Carabao Cup win after scoring the opener before Jamie Vardy’s brace eased the Foxes into the fourth round.

Justin’s injury overshadowed a routine victory and came following his first goal in almost two years.

He was understood to be on Gareth Southgate’s 55-man long list for the World Cup ahead of Thursday’s final squad announcement.

England squad hopeful Justin faces scan after injury during Leicester win

Son Heung-min declares himself fit for World Cup after eye injury

11:20 , Jack Rathborn

Son Heung-min has ended any lingering doubts over his participation in the World Cup.

The Tottenham attacker suffered a fracture around his left eye during a 2-1 win away to Marseille in the Champions League last week.

It raised fears in South Korea that their star player could miss the tournament in Qatar and he had to undergo surgery on Friday.

Son Heung-min declares himself fit for World Cup after eye injury

Sepp Blatter admits ‘Qatar was a mistake’ on eve of World Cup

11:13 , Jack Rathborn

Sepp Blatter, the former president of Fifa, has admitted the decision to award the World Cup to Qatar was a “mistake”.

Mr Blatter was Fifa president in 2010 when its executive committee controversially voted to award the hosting rights for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups to Russia and Qatar respectively.

Qatar has faced criticism over its treatment of migrant workers and discriminative LGBT+ laws, while the tournament also had to be moved to November and December due to heat.

Fifa’s decision to stage the World Cup in Qatar has also been the subject of scepticism after several members of the executive committee who voted in 2010 were later convicted or indicted in criminal or ethics cases.

Sepp Blatter admits ‘Qatar was a mistake’ on eve of World Cup

Harry Kane suffering from fatigue?

11:07 , Jack Rathborn

Tottenham have trained this morning after their Carabao Cup exit at the hands of Nottingham Forest.

Antonio Conte played Harry Kane for almost an hour before Bryan Gil took his place.

Conte then conceded Kane was tired, but played him from the start regardless.

England starting XI vs Iran based on odds

10:58 , Jack Rathborn

Here is how England will start against Iran in their first World Cup match according to the odds.

Pickford; Stones, Dier, Maguire; Trippier, Rice, Bellingham, Shaw; Foden, Mount, Sterling; Kane

England World Cup squad: James Maddison to miss out?

10:48 , Jack Rathborn

It looks like bad news for James Maddison too, with the Leicester midfielder in fine form.

But Gareth Southgate has routinely overlooked him, and the Mail believe he has missed the cut here.

Six goals and four assists this season for Maddison may not have been enough to convince Southgate.

World Cup 2022 kits: Every shirt ranked and rated

10:40 , Jack Rathborn

The Qatar World Cup is nearly upon us, and that means an array of delightful/grotesque international football shirts for us to enjoy/convulse over.

What do we think of Portugal’s bold diagonal stripe? Who has picked a mesmerising shade of red? Why have Argentina dressed like they need 144 off 20 overs? Is that... is that Jafar? Please do share your opinions in the comments below.

Here are the World Cup 2022 kits, ranked and rated from worst to best:

World Cup 2022 kits: Every shirt ranked and rated

England World Cup squad: Fikayo Tomori set to miss out?

10:36 , Jack Rathborn

Fikayo Tomori has reportedly missed out on England’s World Cup squad.

The Telegraph report that the AC Milan defender is one of the unlucky ones.

A Serie A champion and regular in the Champions League, but it’s not enough for the former Chelsea defender.

Likewise, another former Cobham graduate Marc Guehi looks poised to miss out.

France World Cup 2022 squad guide: Full fixtures, group, ones to watch, odds and more

10:30 , Jack Rathborn

France may be the reigning world champions, with deep reserves of talent to call upon in Qatar, but their performances in 2022 have revealed some vulnerability. After an unbeaten 2021 which culminated in a Nations League final victory over Spain, their latest Nations League campaign was underwhelming, winning only one game of six in a relatively gentle group containing Croatia, Austria and Denmark.

Denmark and France now meet again in Group D of this World Cup, a group which also features Australia and Tunisia. It is one France should win, but they will have a target on their backs and there are pitfalls: the Danes will have no fear after their impressive 2-0 win over the French in Copenhagen last month, while Australia and Tunisia squeezed through play-off matches and will feel they have a free swing at this tournament with nothing to lose.

The French team has evolved from the side that lifted the trophy in Moscow four years ago, and is now without the injured Paul Pogba and N’Golo Kante. The big challenge for Didier Deschamps is finding the right balance between hardened World Cup winners and fresh blood. The young Real Madrid duo Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni started together in the recent defeat by Denmark, and Deschamps must decide whether to keep faith or turn to more experience – he has hinted at the latter. “It’s a young French side,” the manager commented after the game, “where the majority of players don’t have experience at the very highest level ... there’s no need to worry, having the players with international experience back will do us good.”

France World Cup 2022 squad guide, fixtures and ones to watch

England World Cup Squad Odds

10:18 , Jack Rathborn

Here are some of the more compelling odds for players in the balance ahead of this afternoon’s squad.

• Fikayo Tomori 10/11

• Marc Guehi 6/5

• James Maddison 4/9

• Conor Gallagher 5/6

• James Ward-Prowse 1/1

• Ruben Loftus-Cheek 4/

• Ivan Toney 4/11

• Tammy Abraham 8/11

Meanwhile, Ben White and Callum Wilson are now 1/8 and 1/5 respectively, suggesting they are very much on the plane.

USA World Cup 2022 squad guide: Full fixtures, group, ones to watch, odds and more

10:10 , Jack Rathborn

The United States secured their spot in Qatar after finishing third in Concacaf World Cup qualifying. They ended the octagonal standings with 25 points – the same as Costa Rica – but a superior goal difference ensured Gregg Berhalter’s men clinched one of the three automatic qualifying spots alongside Canada and Mexico.

It was a suitable redemption for the team who failed to reach the tournament in Russia 2018, missing the World Cup for the first time since 1990, and a fitting reward after three years of growing success. The USA head into this campaign as the reigning Concacaf Nations League champions and the Concacaf Gold Cup holders having beaten Mexico in both finals in 2021.

The manager has a host of talent to choose from and many of the players will be familiar to European audiences such as Chelsea’s Christian Pulisic who shoulders most of America’s hopes for this tournament. Leeds United’s Tyler Adams captained the side through the majority of qualifying and they have the attacking threats of Borussia Dortmund’s Giovanni Reyna and Norwich City’s Josh Sargent whilst youngsters Malik Tillman, Ricardo Pepi and Brenden Aaronson are all exciting prospects.

USA World Cup 2022 squad guide, fixtures and ones to watch

England World Cup 2022 squad guide: Full fixtures, group, ones to watch, odds and more

10:00 , Michael Jones

Expectations are high, and hopes even higher, that England can pull off another superb run at a major tournament after reaching the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and the final of Euro 2020. Manager Gareth Southgate has instilled a confidence in his squad which has brought a belief that England can finally win the World Cup again. That confidence is also reflected in the betting markets with the Three Lions third favourites to lift the trophy behind Brazil and France.

Yet faith in Southgate and his squad is not as strong as it was after England stumbled through this year’s Nations League campaign. No wins in six games with two defeats to Hungary and relegation from League A has put a sour note on Southgate’s time in charge and sends England heading into this important World Cup campaign on rocky footing. The pressure to perform well has increased and the manager’s decision-making, on and off the field, will be more firmly under the spotlight.

No more so than when he names the 26-man squad he will be taking to Qatar. Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling are dead certs and will be hoping to replicate their form from the past two tournaments with Jordan Pickford also secure of a starting place in goal. Jude Bellingham is pushing to tie down a starting berth but the question of where Phil Foden’s best position in the team is hasn’t been answered. Calls to start Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back have gone unheeded with Reece James and Kyle Walker preferred and the England boss has stuck with Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw despite their limited playing time with Manchester United.

England World Cup 2022 squad guide, fixtures and ones to watch

France World Cup squad: Manchester United’s Raphael Varane picked among provisional 25-player list

09:50 , Jack Rathborn

Defending champions France have named Raphael Varane in their World Cup squad despite the Manchester United defender’s injury troubles.

The 29-year-old was a doubt for the tournament in Qatar with a hamstring injury sustained during United’s 1-1 draw at Chelsea on October 22.

But France boss Didier Deschamps has gambled on Varane’s fitness and included him in his 25-man party.

Manchester United’s Raphael Varane named in France World Cup squad

Robert Page: I was never going to leave Joe Allen out of Wales’ World Cup squad

09:40 , Jack Rathborn

Robert Page admits he was never going to leave out Joe Allen of Wales’ World Cup squad, even though doubts persist over whether the Swansea midfielder will be fit to play in the tournament.

Allen, who played at both Euro 2016 and Euro 2020, remains a key player for Wales at the age of 32 but has not played since damaging his hamstring on 17 September.

He was among a 26-man squad announced for this month’s tournament in Qatar on Wednesday as Page returned to his Rhondda roots to name Wales’ first World Cup group for 64 years.

Robert Page: I was never going to leave Joe Allen out of Wales’ World Cup squad

England’s route to Qatar: How the Three Lions qualified for the 2022 World Cup

09:30 , Jack Rathborn

England 5 San Marino 0 (March 25, 2021)

England’s qualifying campaign was bookended with fixtures against the lowest-ranked nation in world football and Gareth Southgate’s side made short work of them at Wembley as goals from James Ward-Prowse, Raheem Sterling, Ollie Watkins and a Dominic Calvert-Lewin brace proved more than enough.

Albania 0 England 2 (March 28, 2021)

What could have proved to be a tricky trip to Tirana in their second game ended with a professional performance and another victory. This time Harry Kane, who would end the campaign with 12 goals, opened the scoring before Mason Mount struck in the second half.

England 2 Poland 1 (March 31, 2021)

The trio of matches to start the qualification phase ended with a Wembley win over England’s toughest opponent in Group I as a Kane penalty was cancelled out by Brighton midfielder Jakub Moder, with Harry Maguire scoring a late winner for the hosts.

Hungary 0 England 4 (September 2, 2021)

In a match marred by racist abuse doled out by Hungary supporters, England’s players stood tall and recorded a fine victory in trying circumstances as Sterling, Kane, Maguire and Declan Rice scored the goals to silence the offensive chanting.

England 4 Andorra 0 (September 5, 2021)

Southgate’s side returned to Wembley to coast to another victory, this time over Andorra – second only to San Marino in the minnow stakes of the group. Jesse Lingard grabbed two goals as Kane added another to his tally and Bukayo Saka also got on the scoresheet.

Poland 1 England 1 (September 8, 2021)

The first dropped points of the campaign came on a testing trip to Warsaw. Although Kane’s second-half strike looked to have set England on their way to yet another win, Damian Szymanski levelled in stoppage time to earn the hosts a share of the spoils.

Andorra 0 England 5 (October 9, 2021)

A fire in one of the dugouts on the eve of the game was arguably the most thrilling part of England’s trip to the Pyrenees as another easy victory followed courtesy of goals from Ben Chilwell, Saka, Tammy Abraham, Ward-Prowse and Jack Grealish.

England 1 Hungary 1 (October 12, 2021)

The only other game which England failed to win also saw them fall behind for the only time in their 10 Group I matches. More unsavoury scenes from the Hungary fans preceded a game where the visitors took the lead through a Roland Sallai penalty before John Stones levelled soon after.

England 5 Albania 0 (November 12, 2021)

Kane hit a fine hat-trick as the hosts cantered to victory under the Wembley arch, the England skipper continuing his impressive scoring record as goals from Maguire and Jordan Henderson added the gloss.

San Marino 0 England 10 (November 15, 2021)

Qualification was all but wrapped up before the trip to San Marino but a place in Qatar was assured in style. It was the first time an England side had scored 10 in a game since 1964, with Kane grabbing another four, Maguire scoring again, a Filippo Fabri own goal, Emile Smith Rowe’s first for his country and Tyrone Mings, Abraham and Saka all getting in on the act.

Callum Wilson’s ‘brilliant mentality’ hailed as he waits on England call

09:20 , Jack Rathborn

Eddie Howe has saluted Callum Wilson’s “brilliant mentality” as he waits to see whether his latest battle to return from adversity will be rewarded with a World Cup call-up.

The 30-year-old striker is back in the Newcastle team and among the goals after a six-week lay-off with a hamstring injury, which came at the worst possible time as England boss Gareth Southgate assessed his options.

Wilson has previously fought his way back from two cruciate ligament ruptures and Magpies head coach Howe, who gave him his chance at Bournemouth, is convinced his fortitude and positivity would serve his country well in Qatar if he made it into Southgate’s 26-man squad on Thursday.

Callum Wilson’s ‘brilliant mentality’ hailed as he waits on England call

Brentford exit Carabao Cup despite England hopeful Ivan Toney’s efforts

09:10 , Jack Rathborn

Ivan Toney’s final audition for a World Cup place could hardly have been more authentic after Brentford crashed out of the Carabao Cup 6-5 on penalties to Gillingham.

Brentford were leading the League Two strugglers through England hopeful Toney’s early goal, but then sat back and allowed their opponents to come at them in the second half.

The Gills duly hauled themselves back into the match when Mikael Mandron’s late header secured a 1-1 draw.

Brentford exit Carabao Cup despite England hopeful Ivan Toney’s efforts

Eddie Howe talks up shoot-out hero Nick Pope before World Cup squad announcement

09:00 , Jack Rathborn

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe backed goalkeeper Nick Pope’s World Cup claims after witnessing his penalty shoot-out heroics as England boss Gareth Southgate prepared to name his squad.

The 30-year-old, a £10million summer signing from Burnley, saved spot-kicks from Luka Milivojevic, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Malcolm Ebiowei as the Magpies progressed to the last 16 in the Carabao Cup courtesy of a 3-2 shoot-out win after the 90 minutes at St James’ Park had ended goalless.

Pope is widely expected to be included in Southgate’s squad when it is announced on Thursday, and his performance will not have gone unnoticed after he also produced a fine first-half stop to deny Mateta.

Head coach Howe said: “I’ve got to say the first penalty save, I thought, was right out of the top drawer.

Eddie Howe talks up shoot-out hero Nick Pope before World Cup squad announcement

Gareth Southgate labels mid-season theory as ‘myth’ ahead of World Cup

08:50 , Jack Rathborn

Gareth Southgate has spoken of the “realistic” prospect of losing England stars to injury ahead of the World Cup in Qatar.

The mid-season tournament means the Three Lions boss faces an anxious wait to see how many of his players are fit to fly to the Middle East on November 15 right up until the weekend before.

Manchester City full-back Kyle Walker is a doubt after undergoing groin surgery, and Southgate expects others could also miss out.

Trent Alexander-Arnold suffered a twisted ankle in action for Liverpool against Arsenal.

“It’s not something we can control,” Southgate said.

Gareth Southgate labels mid-season theory as ‘myth’ ahead of World Cup

England World Cup kits

08:40 , Jack Rathborn

Here are Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham, John Stones and Luke Shaw showing off the new England kits for the World Cup.

Here’s Nike’s effort for what Three Lions supporters will hope become iconic jerseys should Southgate’s men produce in Qatar.

Kalvin Phillips optimistic about making England’s World Cup squad after Man City cameo

08:30 , Jack Rathborn

Kalvin Phillips said he is optimistic he will make England’s World Cup squad after a comeback that he found both “amazing” and “nerve-wracking”.

The midfielder, who had been out for eight weeks after undergoing shoulder surgery, played 41 minutes as a substitute in Manchester City’s 2-0 Carabao Cup win over Chelsea.

Gareth Southgate will name his squad for the World Cup on Thursday and Phillips, who had only previously played 14 minutes for City, accepts he is still a doubt.

Kalvin Phillips optimistic about making England’s World Cup squad after City cameo

World Cup 2022 squads: Latest news on all 832 players heading to Qatar

08:20 , Jack Rathborn

The World Cup 2022 in Qatar is upon us and all 32 teams are in the process of naming their squads, with each country allowed to select a 26-man group for the first time.

It means there will be 832 players heading to the first winter World Cup, with a deadline of Monday 14 November to submit the squads - just seven days before the tournament begins with hosts Qatar taking on Ecuador.

Gareth Southgate will name his England group on Thursday afternoon, with debate currently ongoing over a number of the spots, while other countries’ announcements will filter through across the week.

World Cup 2022 squads: Latest news on all 832 players heading to Qatar

England’s World Cup squad: Our writers pick their 26 players for Qatar 2022

08:10 , Jack Rathborn

Gareth Southgate is set to announce his England squad for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar on Thursday.

The World Cup gets under way on 20 November and England will kick off their tournament the following day when they take on Iran at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha.

Southgate faces several selection dilemmas across the pitch as well as questions over the fitness of right backs Kyle Walker and Reece James, and Walker’s Manchester City teammate Kalvin Phillips. Ben Chilwell’s hamstring injury leaves England short of left-sided defenders, while there is growing clamour for James Maddison to be on the plane and a choice to be made over Harry Kane’s deputies up front.

England’s World Cup squad: Our writers pick their 26 players for Qatar

‘Harry Kane is tired’: Antonio Conte confirms World Cup fears over England captain

08:00 , Michael Jones

Antonio Conte admitted that England captain Harry Kane is “really, really tired” less than a week before England fly out to the World Cup.

Kane has started every game for Tottenham this season and was again in the starting line-up as Spurs crashed out of the Carabao Cup after a 2-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest.

The 29-year-old’s participation at the City Ground was in doubt due to tiredness, but Conte said he had no choice but to start him due to injuries in his squad.

England World Cup squad: Gareth Southgate left with surprise complications

07:50 , Jack Rathborn

England manager Gareth Southgate will reveal his World Cup squad on Thursday having taken a final decision on the form and fitness of key players and those that made a late charge to be on the plane to Qatar.

All eyes will be on the national team’s social media channels at 2pm as the 26-strong selection heading to the Gulf is announced before the Three Lions boss explains his choices to the media at St George’s Park.

England’s Group B opener will be only 11 days away when Southgate reveals his squad for a tournament that has been unceremoniously wedged into the middle of the season.

Gareth Southgate left with surprise complications for England’s World Cup squad

World Cup injuries: Which players are out of Qatar 2022 and who is racing to be fit?

07:40 , Jack Rathborn

The staging of a Fifa World Cup partway through the domestic seasons of many major leagues was always likely to be a problematic one for many reasons - not the least of which is the propensity for players missing out due to injuries.

While a handful suffering tournament absences is nothing new, the issue is exacerbated this time around because club matches will be continuing right up until a week before Qatar 2022 gets underway, with more matches crammed in and less recovery time for players beforehand too.

Unfortunately, a host of names are already confirmed as being out - while more are being added to the list of those racing against time to rediscover fitness with each passing round of fixtures.

World Cup injuries: Which players are out of Qatar 2022 and who is racing to be fit?

‘Devastated’ Reece James confirms he will miss World Cup with injury

07:30 , Jack Rathborn

Devastated England right-back Reece James has confirmed he will not be going to the World Cup 2022.

The 22-year-old started the Three Lions’ last four matches and was a shoo-in for Qatar until sustaining a knee injury in the Champions League match against AC Milan on 11 October.

Chelsea announced James was facing an eight-week lay-off – a timescale that would mean a return around the World Cup quarter-final stage.

‘Devastated’ Reece James confirms he will miss World Cup

The key questions facing Gareth Southgate over England’s World Cup squad

07:19 , Jack Rathborn

Gareth Southgate will reveal his England football team squad for the Fifa World Cup finals at St George’s Park on Thursday, bringing months of speculation over his selection to an end.

The likes of Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling and Jordan Pickford can all be certain of their places but others face an anxious wait to find out if they will travel to Qatar next week and be in contention to play in the opening game against Iran on 21 November.

The England manager has difficult decisions to make in several areas of the pitch, as well as judgement calls on players who are only just returning from injury.

Southgate is expected to take advantage of the expanded squad size and name a full 26-man selection, giving him as many options as possible as he aims to go one further than at Euro 2020 and win England’s first major international tournament in 57 years.

Here, The Independent runs through the key questions facing Southgate…

England World Cup squad announcement

06:45 , Luke Baker

Welcome to The Independent’s live coverage of England’s squad announcement for the Qatar 2022 World Cup.

Gareth Southgate will reveal his 26-man selection at St George’s Park today at 2pm, bringing months of speculation to an end.

The likes of Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling and Jordan Pickford can all be certain of their places but others face an anxious wait to find out if they will travel to Qatar next week and be in contention to play in the opening game against Iran on 21 November.

The England manager has difficult decisions to make in several areas of the pitch, as well as judgement calls on players who are only just returning from injury. He suffered a blow on Wednesday when Reece James was confirmed to be missing the tournament and another potential cover player, Leicester’s James Justin, was taken off injured on Tuesday night.

Southgate is expected to take advantage of the expanded squad size and name a full 26-man selection, giving him as many options as possible as he aims to go one further than at Euro 2020 and win England’s first major international tournament in 57 years.

Stick with us for all the build-up and live coverage of the announcement itself