England Boss Calls For Lie-ins
England Women’s head coach Mark Sampson has urged bosses around the country to allow staff a lie-in in the hope that the entire nation will tune in for Wednesday night’s FIFA Women’s World Cup semi-final against holders Japan.
Sampson has drafted a cut-out-and-keep letter for fans to submit to their managers to request a lie-in following the match in Edmonton, which kicks off at midnight.
This is only the third time an England team has reached a World Cup semi-final, after the men’s team progressed to this stage in 1966 and 1990.
The Football Association (FA) staff will all be allowed an extra hour in bed on Thursday morning where possible.
Martin Glenn, CEO, The FA, commented: “It will be great for the whole country to get behind the Lionesses and wear their colours with pride on Wednesday.
“We are certainly urging all staff to do so at Wembley Stadium and St. George’s Park.
“Where possible, we are also encouraging colleagues to stay up late and roar on the squad, even if that means starting a bit later on Thursday. Have a ‘lie-in for the Lionesses’ is our message. After all, moments like this are special and help bring the nation together. Come on England!”
The FA is also hoping that parents will allow their children to watch the game live, with the game expected to boost The FA’s We Can Play campaign, which encourages more girls to play football.
Coverage begins at 11.10 on Wednesday 1st July on BBC 1.
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