'MORE THAN HAPPY'
Gareth Southgate will be secretly thrilled with England’s World Cup draw despite refusing to admit is, says Shearer
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ALAN SHEARER has revealed Gareth Southgate will be secretly thrilled with England's draw for the 2022 World Cup - even if he won't admit it.
The Three Lions will face USA, Iran and one of Wales, Scotland or Ukraine in Group B at this winter's tournament.
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And ex-England striker Shearer has revealed Southgate will be happy with the draw - despite what he said out loud.
Shearer told BBC Sport: "Gareth will look at that and think it could have been a lot more difficult.
"I am sure he and his players will be happy with that.
"Southgate would have taken that - deep down, without a doubt.
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"He just can't come out and say it just in case. He's too professional to say it.
"But he'll be more than happy with it."
Southgate had earlier said: "USA and Iran are teams we’ve not played for a while and the third is an unknown but throws up a possible British derby.
"We’ve got to get out of the group. Out first objective is to get out of the group and then we build from there.
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"In this situation all of our thoughts are with the people of Ukraine, so when that tie is played out is irrelevant really.
"When you’re seeded you get the advantage of missing out on those big six or seven teams.
"Most of the first seeds would be pleased with the group they get. There are some highly ranked teams in pot two.
"The USA are an interesting one. They’ve got some very good players and we know what they could be capable of, so that one in particular is an intriguing one."
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Shearer also revealed he was thrilled to see England paired with one of Scotland, Wales or Ukraine - with the European play-off ties due to be played in June.
Wales have already reached the final and will face the winner of Scotland vs Ukraine for a spot in England, USA and Iran's group.
Shearer added: "This is the one thing in not having that 'group of death'. It is pretty much open.
"I have to say that I am pleased Scotland, Wales or Ukraine got put in England's group.
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"It adds that little bit more excitement.
"If it is Wales or Scotland it makes it a bit tougher."
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