England fans are accustomed to it: they begin a major tournament full of belief only for it to end in heartache. Nevertheless, here are five reasons why confidence in the Three Lions could be vindicated at the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™.

A new era under Southgate Gareth Southgate, then in charge of the England U-21s, was put in temporary charge of the senior side in September 2016, after Sam Allardyce resigned. The 57-times-capped former defender has thereafter clearly put his stamp on the young team, who epitomise his modest, quietly-confident yet no-nonsense regime. It’s brought a new, relaxed atmosphere to the camp, but Southgate's preparation and homework on the opposition is as thorough as anybody's.

Captain fantastic Harry Kane has promised to tackle the World Cup head on, embracing his responsibilities as the team’s leader in his naturally modest fashion, and is as likely to be your grandmother’s hero this summer as a die-hard England supporter’s. He’s eager to open his goal account for his country at a major tournament, keen for England to be “aggressive and brave” in possession, will thrive at the head of a dynamic and hungry attack and is a friendly, approachable influence around the camp.

Fans are on board Much has been made of how this squad is one of the most relatable for generations. The country has got behind them not through national pride, or high expectations of World Cup glory, but because the players are likeable. Positive vibes from back home, with tempered expectations and a distinct lack of the usual hyped-up pressure, could help propel England through the group stage and beyond.

Strength and depth Southgate’s problem is the one every manager wants to have: who does he play? Which of Eric Dier or Jordan Henderson persuades him they deserve the solitary holding position in his three-man midfield? Will young sensation Marcus Rashford earn a headline-grabbing start ahead of Jesse Lingard, after such an impressive performance in the 2-0 friendly win over Costa Rica? Has Danny Rose put his injury-marred season behind him in time to sneak in ahead of Ashley Young, who has revived his Manchester United career since opting to trade wing for defence? Southgate keeps his cards close to his chest, so we’ll have to wait until Monday...

Variety is the spice of life You'll see plenty of modern formations deployed by England, not least their three-man backline, which could plausibly revert from 3-5-2 to 5-3-2 in times of need. With the Three Lions keen to win the ball ahead of the half-way line, and using Sterling, Kane, Lingard and Dele Alli's ruthlessness on the counter may reduce the chance of being dragged into midfield battles with likely knockout opposition, Poland and Germany.