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VOLGOGRAD, Russia -- Gareth Southgate has said the Volgograd venue for England's World Cup opener against Tunisia on Monday serves as a reminder that some things are "even bigger than football." The Volgograd Arena, which hosts the Group G fixture, stands in the foreground of the Motherland Calls monument in the Russian city formerly known as Stalingrad, which was the scene of one of the most significant battles of World War II. Almost two million people lost their lives during the six-month siege of the city and, with relations between Russia and the United Kingdom currently strained, Southgate said England's trip offers a chance of perspective. "We're aware of the history of the city, the importance of that battle in the Second World War," Southgate said. "It's something that is in the past, but you respect the people who lost their lives who fought together. "There's a lot of talk about relationships between our country and Russia, but the history there is very strong from that period. "To see the [Motherland Calls] statue and have an understanding of the history reminds you that some things are even bigger than football. That's good for us all." Despite England usually being one of the best-supported nations at major tournaments, the Football Association are expecting no more than 5,000 supporters to attend the game on Monday. Difficulties in travelling to Russia and the violent clashes between English and Russian fans in Marseille at Euro 2016 have led to a sharp drop in the numbers travelling to watch Southgate's team, but the former England defender is confident his players will still receive the backing they need. "There have been a lot of stories leading into the tournament which have put people off coming," Southgate said. "We don't see any dangers -- everyone can see the security around the tournament. "We're really grateful to those who are travelling. It gives us a huge lift to see the fans in the stadium. I've met many of them and lots have stories from tournaments going way back. Sometimes those good people following us are overlooked at the expense of some of the guys who have caused problems in the past. "I don't expect that to be an issue this time. We have dyed-in-the-wool supporters here, and we're looking to perform well for them."
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