Croatia also carries nation’s hopes: Modric

CROATIA’S population may pale in comparison, but superstar Luka Modric declared they are carrying as much pressure as England to reach the Russia 2018 final.

World Cup stars on either side will be given until the last minute to prove their fitness ahead of the Luzhniki Stadium showdown, with both teams set to lift the training intensity today after barely getting out of first gear since Sunday.

England holds a special place in world soccer history, while Croatia only won independence in 1991.

Despite a population of 4.1 million, Croatia has qualified for 10 of 12 major tournaments with a second semi-final effort to go along with their maiden 1998 World Cup appearance.

“With England, there’s always pressure. Same with us — pressure on both teams to reach the final. Maybe a bit more on them,’’ Modric said.

“But we also have pressure, and we want to take that pressure and we know what Croatia is expecting from us. More important, what we are expecting from [ourselves].

“They’re looking strong as a team, they have this togetherness which is very important to success. It’s two good teams that are playing well.”

Jordan Henderson looks set to overcome a tight hamstring, although manager Gareth Southgate will continue to monitor the Liverpool midfielder, who came off in the 85th minute of England’s win against Sweden.

Tottenham’s Eric Dier is on standby if Henderson fails a fitness test, with Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy (groin) also under a cloud.