Southgate showing faith in youngsters

England boss Gareth Southgate will continue putting faith in “the innocence of youth” as he prepares to face a Brazil side he rates as the best in the world.

Southgate has already handed 13 debuts in as many matches as Three Lions boss, leaning heavily on players he worked with in the Football Association’s development teams, and has summoned another three – Dominic Solanke, Lewis Cook and Angus Gunn – to join the squad ahead of tonight’s friendly.

Eric Dier will retain the armband after a highly encouraging 0-0 draw against world champions Germany on Friday and Southgate is hoping to see another show of promise at Wembley.

“Young players bring enthusiasm, energy and they bring no cynicism. I think that’s healthy for everybody,” he said. “If you spoke to any of the staff or players this week, that has been the environment.

“The innocence of youth can be wonderful. In some instances it can be a real advantage, maybe in others it can be a disadvantage.

“We’ve got to try and play on the strengths of it and help them as much as possible through the difficult moments they are going to have.

“We think it’s the right route to go, a path that can pay benefits for us as a country moving forward.”

Brazil are expected to recall Philippe Coutinho after his recovery from a groin injury.

The Liverpool player could replace Chelsea’s Willian but manager Tite is expected to make few changes from the team that beat Japan 3-1 on Friday.