Jordan Henderson: England only focused on Panama ahead of possible Belgium showdown

Jordan Henderson claims England have put facing Belgium to the back of their minds and are only concentrating on beating Panama on Sunday.

England face the Belgians in their final group game on Thursday and Roberto Martinez’s side sent out a signal of intent by beating Tunisia 5-2 on Saturday afternoon.

Gareth Southgate’s men only managed a narrow 2-1 victory over the Tunisians, whereas the Belgians impressed with Romelu Lukaku and Eden Hazard both getting a brace.

The contest in Kaliningrad in five days’ time could determine who will finish top of Group G, but Henderson says Panama must be the priority.

He said: “It (Belgium’s match against Tunisia) was obviously a good game, with a lot of goals. I’m sure the fans found it a very good game to watch.

“We were flying (to Nizhny Novgorod) so didn’t get to see it, but obviously it is a very good result for Belgium and they are now top of group. But we will just focus on ourselves, look to win our game tomorrow to go level with them.”

Temperatures in Nizhny Novgorod are expected to be over 30 degrees Celsius when the fixture against Panama kicks off on Sunday afternoon.

It is in stark contrast to the weather at England’s training base in Repino over the last few days, where it has been around only 20.

Henderson admits the conditions could prove to be an issue and added: “Hydration is the most important thing. We need to get plenty of fluids before, during and after. It is the most key thing after the match.”

England’s opening group victory over Tunisia was shrouded in controversy over the use of VAR.

Southgate was upset that England didn’t get two penalties for when Harry Kane was grappled to the ground in the area.

Tunisia’s equaliser came from the spot and the England coach was also frustrated it wasn’t overturned as Kyle Walker used his body strength to prevent Ben Youssef from getting to a cross.

After seeing Neymar have a penalty decision overturned during Brazil’s triumph over Costa Rica yesterday, the Liverpool midfielder feels it shows how VAR can make a positive impact at the tournament.

“I like it when it (VAR) goes our way, hopefully I’ll like it tomorrow. It gives referees a better chance to give the correct decision.

“We saw in the game with Brazil when they gave a penalty for Neymar and then the referee changed his mind, I thought that was a good decision. Hopefully it’s there and both teams get the best of the system.”

Dele Alli is set to miss the Panama clash due to a minor thigh injury sustained last Monday in Volgograd.

The Tottenham midfielder initially sustained the problem in the first half of England’s game against Tunisia, but played on until the 80th minute.

It has led to suggestions he made the minor strain worse by carrying on. Henderson understands why the 22-year-old didn’t want to be substituted in a World Cup 2018 match but says all players have to consider what’s best for the team.

“You know as player if it’s bad enough to come off, but I’m probably one of worst at that - I want to battle through,” he said.

“If it affects my performance, I’m the sure manager and the staff will be able to see. You have to be careful, know your body and if it’s serious enough, hold your hand up to come off.”