England's new World Cup kit was 'leaked' online on Thursday... and sparked a furious reaction from fans.
The Nike home and away designs appeared on the day that Gareth Southgate announced his last squad before the tournament, with the FA apparently left in the dark about the images being made public. The new home kit - worn by captain Harry Kane in the release - pays homage to our 1996 jersey. It comes in the Three Lions traditional white.
Fans were less impressed with the sky blue and navy shoulder pattern. The colours were also on the shorts and socks of the full kit.
One fan wrote on Twitter : "If that’s England’s new home kit... Nike need to hold their heads in shame!! It’s woeful."
A second added: "New England home kit looking like a sports direct special."
The post revealed 13 new kits from various nations, including World Cup holders France, Netherlands, and Portugal, all made by Nike.
One fan quipped: "I think every national team deserves an apology."
What do you make of England's new kits? Let us know in the comments below!
At least our red away kit proved to be a hit with supporters. Quentin Gesp wrote: "How can you create an awful home shirt and yet one of the most beautiful away ones at the same time? This red 1990s inspired kit is a belter of a shirt for England in the next World Cup in Qatar."
One optimistic England fan added: "When Kane lifts the trophy it better be in the red kit not that other monstrosity."
Details emerged as Southgate announced his squad for a Nations League double header against Italy and Germany. Brentford striker Ivan Toney was given his first international call-up after a sensational start to the season, while Southgate stood by defenders Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw, despite both being dropped by Man Utd.
There are just 67 days to go until our Group B opener against Iran on Nov 21. England return to action against Italy on Sept 23 for the first time since June’s 4-0 Molineux mauling at the hands of Hungary.
The Football Association decided against holding a press conference to announce the squad as a mark of respect during the period of national mourning before the Queen’s funeral.
"We recognise the country is still in a period of mourning and my thoughts remain with the Royal Family," said Gareth Southgate. "While it is important to explain some of our decisions around selection, we didn’t feel it appropriate to hold a full press conference, when it might divert attention from where people’s minds should be at this time.
“This is a bigger than normal squad and part of the rationale is that we are very close to a World Cup and we feel, although our results were disappointing in the summer, we have picked on the basis of form and capability over a long period.
"There were certain players we wanted to keep involved this time, but that said it doesn’t mean that this is the end for some of the others who aren’t involved."
