Skip to content

Kyle Walker expects Panama to give England a tough test in World Cup clash

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

England defender Kyle Walker says Panama should be worried about England ahead of their Group G clash on Sunday

Kyle Walker expects Panama to give England a tough test on Sunday, insisting the World Cup clash will be no "walkover".

England beat Tunisia in their opening Group G game and know that a victory over Panama - as well as Tunisia failing to beat Belgium - would secure a place in the last 16.

On the other hand, Panama need to avoid defeat to England when the two sides meet on Sunday if they are to retain any realistic hope of reaching the next round.

But Walker says Panama will match England physically and that Gareth Southgate's side are prepared to alter their tactics slightly to deal with Sunday's opponents.

"We've seen a few clips and we know they're a physical side," he said. "Panama are probably more direct (than Tunisia) so we've had to change our game-plan a little bit and think of the threats they're going to cause us.

Amir Murillo's shot is saved by Thibaut Courtois during the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia group G match between Belgium and Panama at Fisht Stadium on June 18, 2018 in Sochi, Russia.
Image: Panama were beaten 3-0 by Belgium in their opening Group G game

"It isn't going to be a walkover. It's going to be a tough task but if we just concentrate on ourselves we should be fine.

"They're fighting for their lives to stay in this competition and if we get the victory we want, they're out.

Also See:

"They need to worry about us more than we need to worry about them. We've got key men in key areas who can go and get goals at any time.

"So if we keep to the style we've been playing throughout the build-up to the tournament I think we'll be fine."

World Cup Super 6
World Cup Super 6

The jackpot was won again on Tuesday night! Will you be the next winner? Enter your predictions here.

Around Sky