England and Italy have confirmed that they will ask for drinks breaks during their opening match at next year's World Cup.

The two nations have been drawn in the same group at the tournament, which will take place in Brazil, and will meet at Manaus in the Amazon rainforest, where humidity reaches over 80% during summer months.

England manager Roy Hodgson told reporters: "The idea of drinks breaks has been mentioned and we'll back that.

"We don't want a situation where the fourth official has got to try to stop people taking drinks breaks, so you'd want an official one really. I know the Italians intend to bring this up and they'll certainly have our backing."

Italian coach Cesare Prandelli added: "The problem is not the rivals, but it is the hot venue. We need to prepare the best physically and arrive with 23 athletes. If we arrive physically well prepared, we can get a good result."

England will also face Uruguay and Costa Rica in their group.