We must match the Welsh passion, warns Southgate

GARETH Southgate says his players need to show intelligence and spirit to halt a “wounded” Wales side who will be “desperate to beat the English” on the world stage.

Having opened Group B with a stunning 6-2 victory against Iran and then drawn 0-0 with the United States, last year’s Euros runners-up are well placed to reach the World Cup last 16.

England will progress so long as they avoid a four-goal defeat to Wales, whose manager Robert Page appeared to write off their hopes after the late 2-0 loss to Iran followed their 1-1 draw with the US.

Their chances of reaching the knockout phase may be hanging by a thread but Southgate knows tomorrow’s opponents will be desperate to secure a first World Cup win since 1958.

“We have got to play well,” Southgate said.

“We are going to play an opponent that is wounded and, like everybody else, desperate to beat the English. We know what that will be.

“We have got to play an intelligent game and play well. Match the spirit.

“I would be very disappointed if someone says to me that their players will want it more than ours.

“I would be asking questions about what we stand for and what we have been for five years. We are not quite done.

“We need a point more to be certain of qualifying. We need three points and if we get that we top the group and I don’t think many groups will be topped with nine points.”

Southgate stressed the need to use the ball well and make sure they step up on the US stalemate, meaning they will analyse their selection options.

The match is likely to come too soon for James Maddison having only started training on Saturday following a knee complaint, while the likes of Alan Shearer have suggested Harry Kane needs a rest.

The England captain underwent a scan on his foot after a poor challenge against Iran and completed Friday’s draw with the US, with Southgate baulking at the suggestion playing him was a risk.

“No gamble at all,” he said. “He has had a whack to his foot so there is a tiny bit of discomfort when he is striking the ball but we are not talking about anything that was a risk in any way shape or form.”