World Cup 2018: Gareth Southgate confirms Marcus Rashford injury as England arrive in Russia

The England manager confirmed the injury as the Three Lions touched down in St Petersburg on Tuesday afternoon

Marcus Rashford in training before England flew out to Russia (Getty)

Marcus Rashford picked up a “slight knock” during England’s final training session before the squad flew out to Russia, manager Gareth Southgate has confirmed. The player is England’s only injury concern ahead of the side’s opening World Cup match against Tunisia next Monday.

The England manager confirmed the injury as the Three Lions touched down in St Petersburg on Tuesday afternoon.

The Manchester United forward, who scored a stunning strike during England’s 2-0 friendly win against Costa Rica on Friday, will be assessed on Wednesday as Southgate’s men get their first training session underway in Repino.

It’s understood the injury is not a significant one, with Rashford still on course to feature in England’s group-stage campaign.

His impressive performance against Costa Rica was praised by Southgate in the wake of last week’s victory at Elland Road.

“What pleased me most is that he enjoyed his football tonight,” he said.

“He played with a real swagger, he’s a Man United player and got booed at the start and cheered off at the end so that tells you about his performance. I’m really pleased for him.”

When pressed on whether he knew his starting XI for the Tunisia match, the England manager replied: “I might sleep on it.”