Roy Hodgson landed in Russia's historical 'second city' St Petersburg ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2018 draw.
The structured ballot will determine who the Three Lions will face in their qualifying group, which begins in the autumn of 2016.
Hodgson travelled alongside other home nation delegations, including Wales boss Chris Coleman.
2018 FIFA World Cup
Preliminary Draw
4pm (BST), Saturday 25 July
St. Petersburg, Russia
The England manager also took time to wish the GB Olympic rowing team good luck at Heathrow Airport as they travelled to Austria for high altitude training.
The World Cup draw itself will take place at the impressive Konstantin Palace on Saturday afternoon.
Upon his arrival in Russia at lunchtime on Friday, Hodgson spoke about the draw and the difficult task ahead for the Three Lions, whoever they may face.
"It's important to be at the World Cup draw on behalf of The FA," said Hodgson.
"Almost all of the 209 FIFA nations are represented here in St Petersburg and it's an opportunity for national coaches around the world to exchange ideas and talk football.
St Petersburg will host the draw on Saturday
"FA Chairman Greg Dyke and FIFA Vice President David Gill have - quite rightly - been extremely forthright on FIFA governance and politics in recent months and I do not intend to add to that debate this weekend.
"For me this trip is all about the draw and ensuring that the team are doing all the right things on and off the pitch to prepare long term for the tournament in Russia.
"We have a good nucleus of young players in the current senior team who could be a big part of this tournament and it's our job at The FA to ensure they fulfil their potential."
He added: "I'm not going to tempt fate by stating who England might want to play or avoid in the draw and, besides, that would be disrespectful.
"We've seen in the recent Euro 2016 qualification period that virtually all competitive matches are difficult."
“My mind is firmly on securing qualification for France.”
Roy Hodgson England manager
Hodgson also commented on England's proposed friendly schedule in the build-up to next summer's Euros, should his team seal automatic qualification to the Finals in France.
His team have enjoyed a 100 per cent record in the group stage so far, winning all six of their games and topping the table six points ahead of their closest rivals Switzerland and Slovenia.
They can secure their passage to the Finals when they meet San Marino and the Swiss in September, which will give Hodgson a chance to think about his plans ahead of the tournament.
"As you know, England have testing matches scheduled before the Euros against France, Germany, Spain and hopefully Holland," he said.
Hodgson's team have a 100 per cent record in Euro qualifying
"This follows our recent match against Italy. We will be looking to organise reciprocal matches with most of these teams during the World Cup qualification period (2016-2018) so, regardless of who comes 'out of the hat' on Saturday, England will have a balanced and competitive run of matches before the Russia World Cup.
"Regarding my own future, I am fully focused on preparing England for the Euros and - like the players - am determined to make an impact on the tournament.
"Therefore, my mind is firmly on securing qualification and preparing well for France."
England's next game is away in San Marino before the return to Wembley Stadium on Tuesday 8 September to face Switzerland in a Euro 2016 qualifier. Tickets are still available, click here for details.
