England flew back into St Petersburg after securing their place in the semi-finals with victory against Sweden in Moscow on Saturday.

The Three Lions squad and management team arrived at their training base in Repino just after midnight local time and spent the day recuperating as World Cup fever gripped the nation.

Gareth Southgate’s side enjoyed a day of rest and relaxation with no media commitments before beginning preparations for their first World Cup semi-final in 28 years against Croatia in Moscow on Wednesday.

Raheem Sterling shrugged off the latest criticism aimed at the Manchester City forward to capture the feeling in the England camp and back home.

Sterling caused Sweden plenty of problems in Samara and although he received more flak from some fans for missed chances, David Beckham is the latest former England player to jump to his defence.

Picture of the day

Gareth Southgate strikes a familiar victory pose after England's win against SwedenGareth Southgate strikes a familiar victory pose after England’s win against Sweden (Owen Humphreys/PA)

Quote of the day

Video of the day

England squad warms down after quarter-final win

All calm in the England camp… 🧘‍♂️

Posted by England football team on Sunday, July 8, 2018

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What’s on tomorrow

England – FIFA World Cup 2018 – Media Activity – 21st JuneEngland have a press conference on Monday (Owen Humphreys/PA)

England have a press conference at their Repino base at 1.30pm (BST).

Three Lions Throwback

Frank Lampard, centre, celebrates scoring England's third goal in their last meeting with CroatiaFrank Lampard, centre, celebrates scoring England’s third goal in their last meeting with Croatia (Nick Potts/PA)

England beat Croatia 5-1 at Wembley in the last meeting between the two countries in September 2009. Frank Lampard and Steven Gerrard both scored twice and Wayne Rooney was also on target.

The win, in a 2010 World Cup qualifier, secured England’s place at the finals in South Africa with five qualifying matches still to play.