The World Cup moves a step closer on Friday when the draw for the group stage is made.
England have known for some time they will be among the 32 teams while the full line-up is now close to completion following this week’s play-off games. There is one more European spot up for grabs, with a date yet to be confirmed for Scotland’s postponed play-off semi-final against Ukraine. The winners of that tie will face Wales.
It will be a World Cup with a difference for several reasons. First, it will take place in the winter, with the tournament opener on Monday, November 21 and the final just a week before Christmas. It will also be held in the Middle East for the first time, with Qatar controversially being awarded the tournament back in 2010.
