Gareth Southgate will name England’s final 23-man World Cup squad early to limit anxiety in tournament build-up

England have two remaining friendlies before travelling to Russia, and Southgate would ideally like to name his squad before the first of those matches

Gareth Southgate is keen to learn from past manager’s mistakes (Getty)

Gareth Southgate will name his 23-man World Cup squad well before the 4 June deadline in order to limit any anxiety in the build-up to the tournament.

England have two remaining friendlies before travelling to Russia, and Southgate would ideally like to name his squad before the first of those matches, against Nigeria on 2 June.

The Premier League season ends on Sunday 13 May and Southgate will look to finalise his players for the World Cup as soon as possible once it is over.

“I’d like to (name the squad before the next friendly) because you end up being able to run a performance camp rather than a selection camp,” the England manager said. “I think there’s a difference in the feel for everybody.

“If you name 28 and they aren’t sure, but if you name 23 and five on standby – which Sven (Goran Eriksson) did well – then everyone knows where they sit. Those on standby have a chance but they come into the camp knowing that’s their role.

“If you have got 28 or 30 who think they might have a chance, then there’s a lot of uncertainty and anxiety within the games. For me, it’s much better to get the 23 secured and work from there.”

Jordan Henderson captained England against Netherlands (Getty Images)

Southgate says he already has around 20 of the 23 slots filled, as well as settled plans for his captain – Harry Kane is the favourite ahead of Jordan Henderson – and No1 goalkeeper – Jordan Pickford is expected to edge out Jack Butland.

“I’ll probably [confirm the captaincy and goalkeeper] when I name the squad for the finals,” he said. “But, again, I know what I’m doing, so, it’s not a case of me sitting at home fretting about it.”