Manchester City attacker Raheem Sterling was a major absentee as England booked their place at next year's World Cup tournament in emphatic style. Without Sterling in the England squad, they were able to secure a place in Qatar 2022 thanks to the 10-0 thumping of hosts San Marino who ended the game with ten men. The home team had defender Dante Rossi sent off for two yellow cards midway into the second half.

Former Premier League star Mathew Upson has urged Gareth Southgate to rethink starting Raheem Sterling from the starting lineup. The Manchester City star had a poor showing for England during their opening World Cup game against Tunisia but Upson has highlighted that he would drop winger for a different reason.

In a report covered by Evening Standard, Upson indicated that Sterling has tended to lose possession more often than his teammates, which could cost the team dearly later on in the tournament, he said:“I would keep it the same for Panama bar possibly changing Sterling. I think that could be a change and not because he was bad.I don't think anyone needs to clamber over Sterling about his performance. For me, it wasn't that bad. It really wasn't. I just find that sometimes he gets himself in a place where he concedes possession of the ball. He gets caught up with a lot of bodies.”

West Ham United manager David Moyes believes Gareth Southgate should pick Joe Hart for the World Cup as he offers experience for England between the sticks. The Three Lions are yet to find their number one shot-stopper leading into the global tournament but their recent friendlies suggest it could be a fight between Jordan Pickford and Jack Butland.

Hart was criticised by the West Ham fans following his notable blunder in the Stoke City game but Moyes has still backed the goalkeeper for the World Cup after he impressed in the following encounter against Arsenal. Speaking after the match, Moyes said: “I think his saves against Chelsea and today were terrific.