ON TOP OF THE WORLD

Tuchel has every reason to be happy with group L prospects

- JOHN CROSS

THOMAS TUCHEL carried on England's best tradition by getting a lucky ticket in the World Cup draw.

Former Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate gained a reputation for getting good draws during his eight-year reign.

And there were certainly no cutthroat gestures in the draw hall in Washington this time either.

England got Croatia, Ghana and Panama and, without sounding typically arrogant, they are teams Tuchel must feel they can beat to progress from Group L.

It is a bit early to get the bunting out but there is good reason to feel excited, optimistic and get a little carried away, although Croatia are tough opponents.