"It will be difficult to play here in Malta.  We have to create as many clear opportunities as possible and make use of them.  We are four matches away from going to a World Cup and that is exciting," exclaimed England head coach Gareth Southgate.

After Wayne Rooney's retirement, the captain's armband issue had to crop up amongst the media present at the England press conference "I have not decided yet who will carry the captain's armband.  I feel it is unfair to discuss this at this point. The group is becoming more resilient as a group and we are improving."

"Malta defend really well and are well organised.  I can speak highly of Pietro Ghedin, a very experienced coach.  We have to be patient.  I have played here in 2000 and I know all about playing before a full house here.  I am looking forward to it again."

Manchester City's new boy Kyle Walker also spoke highly of Southgate "Malta play a 5-4-1 so we have to be patient and try to work the Maltese out.  It is a pleasure working with such a head coach as Southgate."