Ian Evatt reckons the timing of the World Cup will suit England – but says the conditions will be a challenge.

Gareth Southgate’s side take on Iran in Doha in their opening group fixture on Monday afternoon (KO 1pm).

The Three Lions also face the United States and Wales in Group B as they aim to go one step further than the Euros, when they were beaten by Italy on penalties.

“I think in terms of timescales, it probably suits England better than anybody because for once all the players will be fresh,” said Evatt. “But I do think the heat and conditions are going to play a huge part.

“For some reason, and it’s a crazy one, England have never been good at dominating possession and controlling the ball and controlling games with it.

“I’ve got no idea why because most of them do it every week for their clubs, but it must be a mentality thing with the English national team that we don’t control games with the ball.

“And I think if we play our usual game - which is sacrifice a little bit, try and counter and play for set plays - I just think in those conditions that’s not conducive to good results. 

“I think you have to manage the game with the ball and I don’t think we’re great at that. I’ve learnt as an English fan to try not to build ourselves up too much because we usually fall flat on our faces, so I’m going into it with the attitude of let’s just get out of the group and see what happens.

“I think we should do that and then we’ll see, but I do think the South American teams have a huge advantage with the conditions.”

Brazil and Argentina are the current favourites to win the competition, while holders France also rank highly.

Evatt added: “Just looking at the temperatures out there, it’s certainly not going to suit the European teams, so for me it has to be a South American team that will be favourites. 

“Argentina are on a really good run and they’re playing really good football. They’ve got some good players, but I would think a South American team would win it, given the conditions they’re playing in.”