'England must nullify Modric'

While he is famously one of the best players not to play for his national team, Matt Le Tissier knows a thing or two about being the creative heart of a team.

The man who fulfils that role for Croatia is Luke Modric, the player who was awarded the 'Golden Ball' at the World Cup and is tipped by many to pick up the Ballon d'Or.

"They're a very good team but the obvious thing for me is that lad that stood out at the World Cup, Luke Modric," the former Southampton forward told 'Sky Sports'.

"He was head and shoulders above most of the other players if I'm honest. He just sees the game really well, keeps it simple at times.

"He just gets about the pitch, always seems to be in the right place and sees a pass beautifully. He's always been a footballer that I've enjoyed watching since he came to Spurs really.

"If you can try somehow to nullify what he's got then that gives us a far better chance in the game."