England manager Roy Hodgson has admitted that he "didn't enjoy" informing players that they would not be a part of his 23-man squad for the World Cup in Brazil.

The likes of Michael Carrick and Andy Carroll were only included on the stand-by list, while Ashley Cole, who has since retired from international football, was omitted altogether.

Reflecting on those conversations, Hodgson told reporters: "I didn't enjoy it. All the conversations were private and will remain so, but I'd be lying if I said I was looking forward to it. The players I spoke to showed an understanding as to my position."

The Three Lions open up their group campaign against Italy on June 14.