When England travels to Warsaw to face Poland, Gareth Southgate thinks that they will be prepared for another tough environment.
England has had a productive international break so far, winning five games in a row after cruising past Hungary and Andorra by an aggregate score of 8-0.
Racist abuse was directed at England players in Budapest last Thursday, with Raheem Sterling being the major target as he celebrated his goal. On Wednesday, Southgate expects a stiff challenge, as the two teams have drawn five of their last seven games on Polish soil.
“We have to approach the game the same way we approached the other night,” England manager Gareth Southgate said.
“We understand how important it is to preserve possession of the ball in those situations.
“However, the game's flow will be different, and we'll be facing a level of opponent that, in my opinion, is in a better position.
“They've won their last two games and have some good footballers on the team who will be able to keep the ball a little better than Hungary did against us.
“Then there's the delicate balancing of avoiding inflaming circumstances but yet providing a home crowd something to cheer about and rally around.
“It's a matter of balance and experience. I'm confident our players will handle it with ease.”
Poland has failed to overcome the Three Lions in 17 attempts, and Southgate believes the visitors have a chance to influence their World Cup qualification fate.
“It's a huge opportunity for us; if we win in Warsaw, we'll be one step closer to the World Cup,” he concluded.
“There's a lot of incentive, but we're also trying to avoid thinking we're better than we are.
“The team is playing well, and we have a squad with players who are more than capable of coming into the team and doing well.
