Pub sparks outrage as England fans banned from wearing shirts during World Cup | Football | Sport

A pub in the Midlands has imposed a blanket ban on football shirts throughout the duration of the World Cup. The move comes in response to “an increased risk of disorder, tension and avoidable incidents”, according to a spokesperson for The Jug in Staffordshire.

In a lengthy Facebook post, the establishment made clear that it is not a sports bar and that no matches will be screened during the tournament. And in a bid to keep trouble at bay, all football shirts, including England colours, are prohibited at the Newcastle-under-Lyme boozer for the entirety of the World Cup.

The social media post read: “Important notice during the football tournament. We want to be clear and upfront with everyone.

“We are not a sports bar, and we will not be showing the football during the tournament. We absolutely wish all of the home nations and supporters well, and we hope everyone enjoys the tournament safely and respectfully.

“However, from experience across the licensed trade and from national policing figures, football fixtures can unfortunately bring an increased risk of disorder, tension, and avoidable incidents.

“Because of this, we have made the difficult decision that football shirts, national team tops, club tops, and other football colours will not be permitted inside the pub until after the tournament.

“This applies to everyone equally, regardless of which team or country you support. Our priority is to keep the pub relaxed, welcoming, and safe for all customers and staff.

“We know this may disappoint some people, but we hope you understand that this decision has been made to prevent problems before they happen, not because we are against football or against any supporters.

“Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. The Jug.”

A further statement read: “Comments have been disabled, it is an advisory post and doesn’t need responses.

“We have nothing against football or their fans, but we are a football free zone whilst the world cup is happening.

“If you want live music, or a football free zone, you know where we are. If you still feel offended at this post please read it again.”