‘I’M SCARED OF SPIDERS NOT LIONS!’

USA skipper Tyler Adams says he is more afraid of spiders than facing England in today’s World Cup showdown. Although the Three Lions are one of the favourites to win the World Cup, Leeds star Adams said they hold no fear for the US team.

And he revealed his phobia of spiders will cause him more concern than lining up against Gareth Southgate’s side in Qatar’s Al Bayt Stadium. “England are a big team but an intimidation factor? I wouldn’t say there’s many things out there that intimidate me, other than spiders,” said Adams.

“So it’s fine for me, but obviously I’ve got to play against all those big players, although I’ve done it before.

“But we also want to show what we’re capable of and that US soccer is developing and growing in the right way.”

Adams (celebrating the goal against Wales, above) said he and his US teammates relish their underdog status and the fact all the pressure is on England to win and qualify for the last 16.

“England are one of the favourites to win the

World Cup,” he said.

“In a lot of games, people would probably say we’re the underdogs, but we carry that with pride.

“We have to stay disciplined in what we do.

“Every day, train well, perform in the games and show up. We know what our quality and our determination can show. When we step on the field against England, ultimately we have to be prepared or else a win is not possible.

“It would mean a lot to beat England because we’ve been trying to push this thing along for the past three years and we’ve been moving in the right direction.

“Capitalising against England would mean we’re continuing to move in that direction.”

US coach Gregg Berhalter joked

Southgate, with whom he has enjoyed regular chats in the past, has ignored him since the two countries were drawn to face each other.

“I’ve been Whatsapping him, but I haven’t seen the blue checkmark!” said Berhalter.