England kick off their World Cup campaign against Iran on Monday desperate to take the final step after twice falling just short of winning the country’s first major trophy in more than half a century. They start their three Group B fixtures established as one of the leading contenders. That lofty status is a stark contrast to six years ago, when Gareth Southgate took charge with England at a low ebb after a series of humiliations on and off the pitch.

Gareth Southgate