The Three Lions will welcome back the Chelsea striker, Raheem Sterling, for the knockout game against the defending champions.

Earlier in the tournament Sterling left the English camp in order to attend to an emergency back in England. Sterling had return to deal with a break in at this home in Surry.

It has been confirmed that he will be back in Qatar on Friday ahead of their crunch match against the two-time champions.

Earlier in the week the England coach, Gareth Southgate, said Sterling's departure was not ideal, but they support his descision.

“I spent a lot of time with Raheem this morning (Monday),” said the former England international.

“Of course, it’s not ideal for the group ahead of a big game, but it pales into insignificance. He individual is more important than the group in those moments.”

Meanwhile, the quarter-finals kick-off on Friday afternoon at 17:00 with Croatia in action against Brazil, while tomorrow night at 21:00 the Netherlands will face Argentina.

On Saturday at 17:00, the Atlas Lions of Morocco will be in action against Portugal, while at 21:00, England face France.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport