‘Big opportunity’

“Well, that is a decision we will have to make because clearly a nine is a specialist position,” Southgate said when asked how many strikers he would take to the Euros.

“They have different attributes and that would depend a little bit on injury status in other positions in the squad and also having perhaps players that can play more than one role.

“I think both of them are aware that the opportunity is a big one. But they’re both in good form, they’ve both had time with us.

“Ollie’s been with us more recently, of course, and has done well in the games he’s played. He’s had a fabulous season for his club.

“Ivan since he’s come back into Brentford’s team has had the impact we expected him to, so they are two very good players.”

Despite the absentees, England are favourites to beat rebuilding Brazil in their first match under head coach Dorival Junior.

The Selecao have won 10 of their last 11 friendlies against European opposition but are looking to avoid losing four matches in a row since 2001.

“I’m reading that we’ve only beaten Brazil four times out of 26 games, something like that,” Southgate said.

“There are lots of matches against big opponents that we don’t have outstanding records against that this team have managed to beat – Italy twice being an example, Spain.

“So, it’s another opportunity for us to put a marker down, create a little bit more history for these boys.

“But also we’re going to be tested in every aspect of our game, and that’s going to be a great challenge for us.”