There had been some concerns among fans that late fixtures could curtail celebrations.

The announcement that England’s group stage matches in the World Cup will kick off before midnight is a “welcome boost” for pubs and bars, the boss of an industry body has said.

There had been some concerns among fans that late fixtures could curtail celebrations as next summer’s tournament will take place in the US, Canada and Mexico, meaning some games will not start until 3am UK time.

Dates, kick off times and stadiums for group stage matches were confirmed on Saturday, with Thomas Tuchel’s side to face Croatia at 9pm UK time on June 17, 3pm local time in Texas, at the home of the Dallas Cowboys NFL team.

The second match against Ghana on June 23 is a 4pm kick-off in Boston, 9pm in the UK, while t

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