Hernan Dario Gomez has revealed that Panama’s starting XI will be unchanged against England when the two sides lock horns at the World Cup on Sunday.
The news comes days after Gareth Southgate’s criticism of the English media’s decision to publish pictures which hinted a possible team for the Group G clash in Nizhny Novgorod.
Gomez, meanwhile, confirmed in his pre-match press conference that he would be retaining the same side which lost 3-0 to Belgium.
“The lineup will be exactly the same,” the Colombian told reporters. “I like how my team worked.
“The team that starts the match is the one with the most experience, that’s one of our assets. As a starting XI we are very organised and tactical.”
Gomez also downplayed the impact of England’s apparent leaked team selection, adding: “It doesn’t give me or afford me any advantage.
“I think each and every coach needs to make sure they’re 100% prepared and ready regardless of the opposition. It doesn’t matter who plays, because if one doesn’t play the other is just as good.”
England will take a huge step towards qualifying for the last 16 with victory over Panama, having beaten Tunisia 2-1 in their opening encounter in Russia.