FRANCE 98 – General Media News Template

England have been given a romantic incentive to reach the second round of the World Cup.

The English Football Association will fly out the players’ wives and girlfriends to spend the night with them if they reach the last 16 after their June 26 group game at Lens against Colombia. David Beckham’s girlfriend will attract most attention if England progress.

The Manchester United’s fiancee is pop star Posh Spice of the Spice Girls.

At the last World Cup England played, in 1990, wives and girlfriends spent time in Italy before the matches started but returned home before the first game.

England coach Glenn Hoddle’s decision to let them visit during the competition is part his bid to create a happy atmosphere.