Adam Lallana: Facing Italy would "mean the world"

Adam Lallana has said that it would "mean the world" for him to play in England's opening game of the World Cup against Italy later this week.

The Southampton midfielder only made his debut for the national side last year, but is part of Roy Hodgson's 23-man squad for the tournament in Brazil.

The 26-year-old told the Daily Star: "It would mean the world [to play]. But the main thing is getting the three points and whether that comes with me off the bench or in the starting lineup, the result is all that matters.

"We have got a few days left to try and impress the manager. We all want the same outcome and that's a win. It's healthy."

England play Italy in Manaus on Saturday evening, and will also face Costa Rica and Uruguay during the group stage of the competition.