England will delay their trip to Mexico City for their crunch last-16 match with Mexico – amid concerns over SPYING.
The Three Lions returned to their Kansas City base from Atlanta following their dramatic 2-1 victory over DR Congo on Wednesday night, rather than heading straight to their next World Cup destination.
And Daily Mail Sport understands that one of the main reasons for doing so is to ensure Thomas Tuchel can set out his tactical blueprint and formation in a secure environment, away from prying eyes.
Throughout the tournament England have been returning to their HQ close to the middle of the US. One of the factors behind the decision to be based in Kansas City is logistical, and the fact that it means they do not have to face any long flights.
However, it is understood that Tuchel is adamant that his plans will not be leaked and that vital preparations including team shape can be held in the most well-guarded place possible.
The possibility of others spying on England has been a key part of planning and it is understood that the view within the camp is that a trip to Mexico City comes with increased risks.
England are not planning to immediately travel to Mexico City due to concerns over spying
Tuchel pictured at England training on Thursday at their Kansas City base for the tournament
Indeed, should England progress to the final in New York, they would return to Kansas City following the semi. The Three Lions training ground in Kansas City is guarded by police, with security guards stationed at various points on the perimeter when they undergo their sessions.
Meanwhile, England are bracing themselves for attempts at severe disruption from the moment they touch down in Mexico City on Friday, ahead of the Sunday night high-altitude battle against the co-hosts.
Ecuador, who Mexico defeated in the round of 32, submitted a formal complaint after significant numbers of locals set off fireworks and used air horns, drums, motorbikes and loud music outside their hotel to the early hours in an attempt to deprive their opponents of sleep.
‘This conduct is far removed from the principles of fair play, equality and unity that a football World Cup should represent,’ Ecuador’s football federation said in a statement.
There were also reports of attacks from Mexico fans towards visiting journalists, while what appeared to be a beer cup hit an Ecuadorian TV journalist in the face during a live broadcast.
Daily Mail Sport has asked FIFA what it intends to do to ensure England do not face such issues but is yet to receive a response. Local police can disperse crowds and create an effective no-go area around the hotel.
The FA and Tuchel are aware of the situation. Following Harry Kane’s heroics in Atlanta, the German said: ‘We will expect that (noise outside the hotel). But what can we do? We will bring earplugs. I expect everything.’
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