Paul Ince says he fancies England's World Cup chances in Qatar ahead of Iran

Reading FC boss and former England captain Paul Ince says the Three Lions have got as good a chance as any as they begin their World Cup campaign in Qatar.

Gareth Southgate's side face Iran on Monday afternoon (1pm UK time) in their opening game of the tournament, before taking on the USA and Wales in Group B.

Ince made more than 50 appearances for the national side in his playing days and admits given the calibre of players at England's disposal, he is expecting them to go far in the tournament.

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"One thing is for sure – I will always support my country,” he said. "I look at England sometimes and I think, ‘there’s so much quality, so many world-class players’.

“The Nations League hasn’t been great… but that doesn’t matter. That’s gone. This has to be about this World Cup. The likes of [Harry] Kane, [Phil] Foden, [Jude] Bellingham, [Declan] Rice… we have some top, top players so I expect us to go really well.

“We might have to play the French in the last 16 or 8… but I don’t think there’s a standout team. Some people are picking Brazil or Argentina, but I think it’s there for us to go and do it. We missed out at the Euros and the last World Cup – hopefully it’s third time lucky."

As well as England's involvement, Ince has added interest in the tournament with three members of his Reading side called up. Baba Rahman is representing Ghana, Mamadou Loum is there for Senegal while Junior Hoilett is part of the Canada squad.
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