World Cup 2026: Jordan Henderson urges England players to expose themselves to scorching heat in US

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

The bulk of England’s squad has arrived in the US ahead of the tournament, which starts next week, although five players – among them Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka – will join later this week.

Thomas Tuchel’s side have based themselves in Florida – known as the Sunshine State – to help the players adapt to the brutal US heat.

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

In fact, research has shown that nearly a quarter of all World Cup games are likely to be played in temperatures above 26C.

BBC Sport revealed on Sunday that England boss Tuchel has advised his players to take a holiday in the US after the domestic season to acclimatise to the heat and time zone change.

England forward Marcus Rashford was among the players taking their post-season break in the United States.

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

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

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