Russia ‘planning to BUG England football stars at next year’s World Cup – forcing Three Lions to take a surveillance crew with them to bust spies’

THE England squad are bringing an anti-surveillance crew to the 2018 World Cup amid fears Russian spying will steal team tactics.

The crack team of specialists will sweep the hotel rooms where the Three Lions are staying for bugs to prevent strategy secrets being taken.

PA:Empics Sport

Fears of Russian spying have emerged since Harry Kane scored a winner against Slovenia on Wednesday[/caption]

Information about the extra security unit has emerged amid concerns that Russia’s notorious intelligence services may use listening devices to snoop on visiting teams and ruin their match preparations.

Wales, led by Chris Coleman, as well as other home nations are also set to hire surveillance units if they make it through to next June’s finals.

Harry Kane’s late winner against Slovenia at Wembley secured Gareth Southgate’s England squad a place on Wednesday.

Since the win, FA Chiefs have been making plans to ensure the team has the best chance of bringing the trophy home for the first time since 1966.

 

Reuters

An England source revealed the squad is worried about Russian intelligence tapping their hotel rooms[/caption]

But an England source has now revealed fears that Russian spying could threaten England’s chances of a World Cup victory.

The source told the Daily Star: “Some of the lads had better be careful with what they use the internet for in their hotel rooms – anyone could be watching in or listening.”

Safety concerns have been raised for both fans and players after terror attacks and last year’s violent clashes between British and Russian supporters at the European Championships.

“Security is obviously high on the agenda – both in terms of global terrorism, the Russian hooligan issues, and also the fact the intelligence services make it their business to know the business of every foreigner who visits the country,” the source added.

PA:Press Association

Harry Kane and other players will have to keep their wits about them at the next World Cup[/caption]

“A major security detail will accompany the squad and it’s not beyond the realms that they will have someone sweeping rooms, beforehand. The last thing Team England want is a leaky camp, so everyone is able to be relaxed and just concentrate on their football.”

England have already scouted out potential team bases and the £100-a_night ForRestMix club, near St Petersburg, as their favourite venue.

 

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