Southgate’s Sterling role for Belgium

RAHEEM STERLING has been assured he remains an integral part of England’s World Cup plans during a heart to heart with manager Gareth Southgate. Southgate told the Manchester City forward, 23, he still has a major role to play. Sterling, who started the victory against Tunisia, is set to make way for Marcus Rashford when England face Panama. Southgate’s plan to draft Rashford and Ruben Loftus-Cheek — in place of the injured Dele Alli — into his team to face Panama was revealed by Sportsmail on Wednesday. The England manager has pencilled in Sterling (left) for a role against Belgium on Thursday. Alli has been working away from the squad but is expected to be available for the final group game. Ashley Young plays at left wing-back tomorrow ahead of Danny Rose, who is still likely to get some game time against Panama.