Gareth Southgate says England can ‘live in fear or get on with things’ ahead of 2018 World Cup

Gareth Southgate believes that the England football team can either “live in fear or get on with things” as they continue their preparations for the World Cup in Russia in June.

Southgate announced the squad for his two friendlies yesterday but much of his press conference at St George’s Park was dominated by questions over the security and political situation in the wake of the nerve agent attack in Salisbury last weekend. Amid calls for the England team to be withdrawn from the tournament, the FA said yesterday that they are still in a “regular exchange” of information with the UK government but that they still planned on England team travelling and competing.

Southgate was clear throughout the press conference that these decisions were not his and that he was focusing on preparing the team for the friendlies and the World Cup. But he added that as sensitive a topic as this is, he wanted his team to focus on and enjoy their football when they are in Russia.

“I am clearly aware of the dynamic that’s going on,” Southgate said. “But I’ve travelled the world and been to countries where I’ve been warned about where to walk, and where to go, and two days later I have ended up running down the street. Because I have realised you can live in fear or you can get on with things. I am not one to be inhibited by travelling to foreign countries where there have been issues. In my experience all countries have areas of difficulty and all countries have areas where you feel very free.”

England meet up next week for friendlies against Netherlands in Amsterdam and Italy at Wembley, and Southgate confirmed that he will likely speak to his players about the Russian security situation, to gauge any players’ concerns.

“It's probably something I would raise with [the players] just because it is so visible at the moment,” Southgate confirmed. “It is important whenever there is speculation and uncertainty that you put it into context for everybody.”

While Southgate’s direct concern football rather than security, he is naturally keen that the FA address any concerns from the players ahead of June’s tournament. “The players would be biggest consideration, if they do have any concerns,” Southgate said.

“Clearly with the amount of spotlight on the issue, they'll have questions to ask, and they will have things they are uncertain of. So we have to make sure we give them all the facts we have, allay fears they have and make sure they are their families are safe and secure.”

But Southgate was very clear that all England players would be free to make their own choices about going to Russia or not, free from prejudicing any future selection. “It’s always an individual decision,” he said.

“You select and you assume everyone wants to go, but that doesn't always happen. I would never pressure any individual to make a decision. They are all grown-ups and can make their own decision. I think the important thing is that ultimately a decision on the team going will be the FA in conjunction with the Government.”