School can wait, let children stay up for England vs Mexico: Tuchel

Sir Keir Starmer has rejected a plea made to parents by England manager Thomas Tuchel to “write an excuse” for school to let children watch England’s early-morning match against Mexico on Monday.

England’s win over the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday confirmed a clash with the co-hosts in Mexico City that will kick off at 1am BST.

In the past it has been common for schools and employers to allow England games in the latter stages of major tournaments to be shown when they clash with working hours, but Monday’s kick-off in the small hours poses a unique challenge for teachers and employers alike.

Shortly after the game, Tuchel said: “Write an excuse for school and let them watch football. There’s so much school to go to, but the World Cup is every four years. Let them watch. There will be a big, big match on in four days and we need the support of everyone, and especially of the children.”

But Sir Keir has disagreed, with his spokesperson saying children “should be in school on Monday”.

He added: "Obviously parents can make their own decisions. We want everyone to enjoy the game but children should be in school on Monday. Parents can make their own mind up but we want everyone to enjoy the game, that includes children. But they should be in school on Monday."

Despite the intervention from politicians, some schools have shown leniency by allowing parents to drop their children off later on Monday.

Others, however, have told parents that school will be open as usual on Monday.