England World Cup date an incentive for Scotland says James McFadden

England were drawn in Group B and will kick-off against Iran with USA and either Scotland, Wales or Ukraine completing the Qatar section, with that play-off path still to be settled in June due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

England have never faced Scotland or Wales at a World Cup finals, but do have recent Euros experience against both sides.

Scotland faced England at Wembley in the group stage of Euro 2020 last June, while Wales and England came together at Euro 2016. England won that match 2-1 but Wales progressed further in the tournament, reaching the semi-finals.

Former Scotland international James McFadden believes the prospect of facing England at the biggest stage will be a major motivation ahead of the play-offs.

"We have got play-offs that we have to worry about and hopefully we can get through the first one, which sets up an unbelievable encounter against Wales," the former Motherwell and Everton forward told BBC Sport.

"And then for either side, it's a great incentive. It's a big enough incentive in itself to get to the World Cup, but knowing that you're going into a group again with England is great and I'm sure it will motivate the players going into those play-off games."

Upon discovering the outcome of the draw, England captain and striker Harry Kane tweeted: "Always exciting to see who we get in the group! Playing on the opening day will be incredible as well."

Hosts Qatar will kick off the tournament against Ecuador on November 21, whilst elsewhere Group E pitted two former world champions Spain and Germany against each other.

Belgium take on fellow 2018 World Cup semi-finalists Croatia in Group F, while reigning champions France take on Denmark, Tunisia and the winner of intercontinental