Former England captain Steven Gerrard has backed the current crop of Three Lions players to handle the pressure that comes with playing at a World Cup.

Gareth Southgate's team arrived in Repino earlier this week ahead of their opening game with Tunisia on Monday.

Gerrard, who played 114 times for England, told PA that the current set of players have less pressure to perform this time round in Russia.

"What will help England is I don't feel there is huge pressure or expectation like previous years," the Rangers manager said.

"But players are aware there is that extra spotlight on them. It is on the TV and players have their phones and social media so you are not going to get away from what's being said at home.

"This is why these players are the best because they should be able to handle the scrutiny and that kind of pressure."

Chelsea defender Gary Cahill has the most caps in Southgate's squad, having appeared 60 times for the Three Lions in his career.