World Cup

Gareth Southgate has "no concerns" about Russia World Cup safety

By Giuseppe Labellarte, Reporter | 22 March 2018

Southgate not concerned about Russia safety

England manager Gareth Southgate says that he has "no concerns" about security and safety at this summer's football World Cup in Russia despite Foreign Office warnings.

England manager Gareth Southgate has stressed that he has "no concerns" about security and safety at this summer's football World Cup in Russia.

The United Kingdom and the tournament host nation are embroiled in a diplomatic row following a poisoning incident in Salisbury which left an ex-Russian spy and his daughter ill.

Prime minister Theresa May has already confirmed that government ministers and senior royals will not attend the World Cup, and there have been calls for the Three Lions to withdraw from the tournament.

In addition, the Foreign Office advises those travelling to Russia to "remain vigilant, avoid any protests or demonstrations and avoid commenting publicaly on political development".

"If I were a fan, I would [go to Russia]," Southgate told BBC Sport ahead of Friday's friendly with the Netherlands. "I have spent some time in Russia and felt incredibly comfortable there. But, for every individual, it is up to them what they want to do.

"It's of little interest to me what the foreign secretary thinks about it. I was in Russia last year for the Confederations Cup and there were about 15,000 fans from Chile. There was an incredible atmosphere in the stadiums. It felt like the other World Cups I'd been to.

"The situation is developing so we don't know what it will be like in June, but on the situation currently, it wouldn't stop me from going."

England begin their World Cup campaign on June 18 against Tunisia, before taking on Panama on June 24 and Belgium four days later.