England know their opponents for the Qatar 2022 World Cup later this year, with the group stage draw being made on Friday evening. The Three Lions will be hoping to improve on their semi-final exit in Russia 2018.
Qatar may prove the perfect place to do so, with the side fresh from reaching a final in a major tournament last summer, but losing out to Italy in a penalty shootout at Euro 2020. With just seven months remaining and the group drawn, Gareth Southgate will be fully focused on picking his squad for the competition.
The England manager has used a total of 100 different players in his tenure, with the remaining months potentially offering a chance to increase that total, while other experienced members will be hoping they aren’t the unlucky ones to miss out. The novelty of the tournament taking place mid-season may also have a big impact on selection.
READ MORE: Fans react to former Tottenham player Jermaine Jenas hosting the Qatar 2022 World Cup draw
The draw has potentially given the Three Lions a good chance to progress to the knockouts, though it would be a mistake to suggest they are through already, as some previous England teams have found out. The group consists of Iran, USA and one of Wales, Scotland or Ukraine.
The last team is still unknown due to the final qualifier being left undecided in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, meaning the match between them and Scotland is set to be held at a later date, with the final UEFA qualifier against Wales also pushed back. The match currently looks set to be played out in the summer break between the end of this season and the start of the next, though that could still change in an ever-fluid situation.
With all that said, here’s a look at when England - as well as possibly Wales or Scotland - will play their games this November. The venues for the matches are yet to be confirmed.
Monday, November 21
England Vs Iran
USA Vs Wales or Scotland/Ukraine
Friday, November 25
England Vs USA
Wales Or Scotland/Ukraine Vs Iran
Tuesday, November 29
Wales Or Scotland/Ukraine Vs England
Iran Vs USA