Prince William delivered England’s stars their World Cup squad numbers on Monday night and issued a simple message to the Three Lions: “The rest of the country is behind you. We are all rooting for you. Enjoy it!”
Gareth Southgate’s men met up at St George’s Park on Monday before flying to Qatar on Tuesday morning to begin the World Cup odyssey in the Middle East, kicking off their tournament against Iran next Monday.
England chief Southgate gave his side a rousing speech, urging them to make history as he and his staff revealed to the players their squad numbers for the finals. And FA President, the Prince of Wales, was on hand to help present mementos to the players, and say a few words.
England go into the World Cup in poor form after six games without a win and relegation from the Nations League but are determined to bounce back with a bang.
Southgate has given the numbers one to 12 to the same players who wore them at Euro 2020, where they lost on penalties to Italy in the final at Wembley. Jordan Pickford claims the No.1 jersey while captain Harry Kane again wears nine.
Kalvin Phillips, Conor Coady, Mason Mount and Phil Foden also wear numbers 14, 16, 19 and 20 respectively like they did for the European Championships last year.
Leicester midfielder James Maddison seemingly ended any lingering doubts over his fitness – after being forced off during his side’s 2-0 win over West Ham on Saturday with a knee complaint – by being given the No.25 shirt.
The Three Lions flew out to Qatar on Tuesday morning on a plane called ‘Rain Bow’, as first revealed by ITV. Among the criticism of the hosts is the country’s oppressive laws and treatment of LGBT+ people.
England skipper Harry Kane is one of several national captains who plan to participate in the ‘OneLove’ campaign during the tournament to oppose discrimination.
A Football Association spokesperson said: “We show our support for inclusion in many ways, including wearing the One Love Armband during the tournament.”
It is understood that the FA did not choose the plane, but is happy to fly on it. The chartered flight is with carrier Virgin Atlantic, who have no commercial relationship with the FA.
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