England 16/1 for World Cup

The Three Lions have been so inconsitent lately that the bookies don’t know what to think at this stage, they are on offer from as short as 9.00 (8/1) to a best price of 17.00 (16/1) for victory.

It was announced that England would not be among the top nine European countries for Sunday’s draw.

Ladbrokes spokesman Robin Hutchison said: "Being among the second seeds means they could draw Italy, Germany or France so you could argue their odds should drift. But they are the worst losers in our book despite the doom and gloom so we'll wait to see the draw before we change their price."

Brazil are the current favourties for the title, they can be backed at a best price of 6.00 (5/1) with Expekt. Argentina are on offer at 7.00 (6/1) across the board.

Reigning champions Italy are available at 11.00 (10/1) with Bet365, Bet Direct, Better Bet and Skybet. Germany are widely on offer at 13.00 (12/1) and Spain can be backed at a best price of 15.00 (14/1) with SportingBet.