Texas, June 15 -- Ahead of his side's FIFA World Cup campaign opener against England, Croatia star Luka Modric has shut down talks around his retirement, speaking of his "exclusive focus" on the tournament, and warning the 1966 champions that his team is "not afraid of anyone".

The 40-year-old Modric, the Croatian captain and AC Milan ace, will lock horns with the Harry Kane-led England side at Texas on Thursday.

Modric has achieved multiple La Liga titles with Real Madrid and six UEFA Champions League trophies with the Spanish giants from 2012-25 and is now making his time with AC Milan count. In international colours, he was on the wrong side of the result in the 2018 final, losing to France, while securing a bronze medal in the 2022 ...