But plenty of pubs and bars across the city will be screening the home nation’s matches at the showcase event in Qatar.

Controversy has surrounded Qatar hosting the finals since they were awarded in 2010, with the country’s treatment of migrant workers and criminalisation of same-sex relationships among the issues which have caused the most concern.

It also presents a unique set of circumstances for fans, players, managers and businesses alike with the tournament taking place during winter for the first time.

But England supporters – and those getting behind Wales – will be getting into the spirit of World Cup fever when the tournament kicks off on Sunday, with both sides kicking off their campaigns on Monday, against Iran and the USA respectively.

The big screen in Bradford city centre has been used to show films during school half-term and broadcast BBC’s The One Show at the end of May when Bradford was announced as the UK City of Culture 2025.

But it is now 16 years since England matches were last shown on the big screen.

Back then, 3,000 fans flocked to the area for each of the nation’s first two group games in the 2006 World Cup.

The local authority cited its decision as being based on helping businesses in the area benefit from the tournament.

In a statement not dissimilar to that issued before the Euros last year, a spokesperson for Bradford Council said: "We have taken the decision not to screen any of the football matches from this winter World Cup on the big screen in the city centre this year as we want to encourage people to continue to support their local hospitality establishments in the city and town centres of the district, many of which will be screening the matches.

“Pubs, restaurants and hospitality venues have had a particularly tough few years and so it would be far more beneficial to these businesses for people to watch the tournament at these venues, bringing them much-needed revenue.”

England face Iran in their first game at the Khalifa International Stadium at 3pm next Monday, while Wales – who are in the same group - take on the USA in the Al Rayyan Stadium at 7pm that evening.