'Stick to the basics' - England boss Gareth Southgate sent Kyle Walker warning by ex-Man City man

Former Manchester City defender Bacary Sagna has backed Kyle Walker to start at right-back for England at the World Cup in Qatar, insisting he is the best option for that position.

Walker, who has made 70 appearances for the Three Lions, has featured regularly for England at centre-back in recent years - playing at the heart of defence at the last World Cup and during the most recent Euros tournament.

England boss Gareth Southgate has utilised the 32-year-old in that position due to his versatility and athletic ability, with the City star performing well on the majority of occasions that he has played at centre-back.

ALSO READ: Man City might have secret weapon to clinch Jude Bellingham transfer

He started at centre-back against Italy in the Nations League last week, playing alongside Eric Dier and Harry Maguire. However, Walker was dropped to the bench for the Three Lions' entertaining 3-3 draw with Germany on Monday night.

With England boasting so many options at right-back, Southgate appears to view Walker as a centre-back, rather than a full-back.

Despite this, ex-City man Sagna has insisted that the former Tottenham man should be starting on the right for his country - adding that he is 'one of the best in the world' in that position.

Speaking to Lord Ping, the Frenchman said: "My first choice would obviously be Kyle Walker. I think out of the options that England have, he is the most complete player. He is having a fantastic spell at Manchester City.

"When he first joined the club he was sometimes criticised for his positioning but now I think he is very influential and a key player for Pep.

"I consider him to be one of the best in the world. He brings consistency and leadership and he has all the qualities