Victory for England over Croatia would have had the Bookmakers in two minds, as whilst they clearly wanted the Three Lions to win, they have been saved paying out a small fortune.

Across the betting industry, record payouts would have been seen if England had triumphed in Russia, as the public got behind Gareth Southgate and his boys.

But now the £250,000,000 pay-out won’t be heading out of the Bookmakers’ coffers.

Betfred alone confirmed they would be in-line to lose £6million, had England taken home the trophy.

Betfred boss Fred Done said: “That’s two bullets dodged.

“£6million if this incredibly well marshalled young side had done the impossible and actually won the world cup AND £500,000 on England outright refunds if we had gone out on pens.

“I don’t take any pleasure in that at all for I’m a patriotic Englishman and we’re coming home with honour.”