The Sunday Post (Newcastle)

Les Bleus will be too strong for Croatia

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The FA has told England’s “incredible” supporters there will not be any opportunit­y to thank their World Cup stars when they return home.

A memorable summer came to a meek conclusion on Saturday, when Thomas Meunier and Eden Hazard goals secured Belgium a 2- 0 win in the third- place play-off in St Petersburg.

England have one last night in Russia before flying into Birmingham, where airport security restrictio­ns mean there will be no public access to the arrival.

There will also be no celebrator­y events unlike the the last time the Three Lions made the World Cup semi-finals in 1990.

England boss Gareth Southgate backed the decision not to hold a parade this time around and the FA has reiterated the low-key homecoming plans to England Supporters Club members.

Their post read: “Thank you for your unbelievab­le support throughout this World Cup journey. In Russia and back home you’ve been incredible.

“This team has never felt closer to the fans and the nation than they do today.

“Following this evening’s match, the squad will privately return to England and go their separate ways for a well-earned break.

“There will therefore be no opportunit­y for a public reception either at the airport or elsewhere.”

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