The temptation of giving out caps to the fringe players in England's final World Cup game with Wales is too great, according to the coach.

England are top of Group B with four points and need one more to guarantee a place in the knockout rounds, but they are facing calls to change their squad. Only a four-goal defeat to Wales would endanger the last-16 spot.

There are 15 players in the squad who are yet to start in the finals who have not been named in the starting line-ups.

Jordan Henderson, who appeared with the England manager in the press conference, is thought to be one of the changes to the starting XI.

Jordan Henderson is expected to be one change Southgate makes for the Wales clash
Image: Jordan Henderson is expected to be one change Southgate makes for the Wales clash

"That's always a challenge and we have 26 players, so we have to keep them happy," said the manager. We are not at a major tournament to give caps out. We would like to go as far as possible. Some players will be disappointed if they don't play.

When you're in a World Cup, you can't be thinking in that way unless you've already qualified.

Many professionals get on with that. I went to a tournament with no time at all.

Marcus Rashford speaks to Gareth Southgate
Image: Players like Marcus Rashford (right) are yet to start at this World Cup

The back-up job is to train well, support the guys and be ready when it's time. In the previous two tournaments, the squad have been prepared and supported.

"We want to win football matches and that's what we're going to try to do against Wales." It's always the team's decision to balance freshness with stability. With a positive result, we have a chance of winning the group.

We will pick a team that we think can win. Our priority is that.

Kane is 'fine' despite recent knocks

Harry Kane rues a missed chance in England's 0-0 draw with USA
Image: Southgate insists captain Harry Kane is fit despite recent knocks

One person who has been rumored to face rotation is captain Harry Kane, who was an injury doubt against the United States but came through with a goal.

The England captain's fitness is up to standard according to the coach.

He's okay with the knock he had. I don't understand why people think his foot is the cause of his injuries.

Ben White is missing with a sickness. Everyone is available to pick from which is a great position to be in. You want a fully fit squad so that's where we're at.

Southgate expects 'fantastic atmosphere' against Wales

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England manager Gareth Southgate explains, in as simple terms as possible, the football rivalry between England and Wales.

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England manager Gareth Southgate explains, in as simple terms as possible, the football rivalry between England and Wales

Wales will be knocked out of the tournament at the group stages if England win or draw, while Rob Page's side are looking for their first win over their UK neighbours in over three decades.

England will need to match Wales'spirit on Tuesday night as he knows they will bring extra motivation to the game.

They seem to have extra motivation to play against England.

It's similar to any two countries that have borders next to each other. There is a great sporting rivalry. No more than that.

I can empathise with that feeling, even if it isn't mutual. They feel the same about the whole of England.

The game is going to be great and we are looking forward to it. If we didn't match the spirit of Wales, I would be disappointed.