Gareth Southgate to name England World Cup squad early

England manager Gareth Southgate has said he plans to to name his 23-man World Cup squad early to ease pressure on preparations.
Southgate has until May 14 to give England's 35-man provisional squad to FIFA and needs to whittle it down to 23 by June 4 - two days after England's next friendly against Nigeria.

In a bid to have roles clearly defined in preparation for the finals, Southgate will name his squad before the penultimate warm-up friendly and the announcement is expected shortly after the end of the Premier League season. 

He said "I'd like to name the squad before the next friendly because you end up being able to run a performance camp rather than a selection camp," the England manager said. I think there's a difference in the feel for everybody. If you name 28 and they aren't sure, but if you name 23 and five then everyone knows where they sit. Those on standby have a chance but they come into the camp knowing that's their role. If you have got 28 or 30 who think they might have a chance, then there's a lot of uncertainty and anxiety within the games. For me, it's much better to get the 23 secured and work from there."