World Cup 2026: Jordan Henderson urges England players to expose themselves to intense heat in United States

Jordan Henderson has urged England’s players to “expose” themselves to the sweltering Florida conditions so they can acclimatise to the intense heat expected at the World Cup.

The majority of the England squad have arrived in the United States ahead of the tournament which begins next week, though five players – Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka among them – will join later this week.

Thomas Tuchel’s side have located themselves in Florida – known as the Sunshine State – with a view to helping the players adapt to the brutal US heat.

During the team’s first training session in West Palm Beach on Tuesday, temperatures reached 32C.

Indeed, studies have shown that nearly a quarter of all World Cup games are likely to be played in temperatures higher than 26C.

BBC Sport revealed on Sunday that England boss Tuchel advised his players to holiday in the USA after the domestic season to help adapt themselves to the heat and changes in time zone.

England forward Marcus Rashford was among the players who took their post-season break in the US.

Henderson, who is set to play in his seventh major tournament, said it is important England’s players are able to cope with the temperatures.

“You just build your capacity to these conditions,” said the Brentford midfielder.

“I know that depends on where you’re playing in the country, it can be different all over so it’s hard to really adapt but it’s about this week to build that capacity, to get used to the heat a little bit.