Huge WAG decision made by Gareth Southgate 'to take England stars' mind off football'

Gareth Southgate, who's been under scrutiny recently, is apparently hoping to lift his team's spirits by inviting the WAGs into camp.

Earlier this week, it was revealed that Southgate planned to welcome the WAGs into England's training base after each group game, a break from the usual strict protocols, after Thursday night's disappointing draw.

Following Thursday night's 1-1 draw against Denmark, it seems Southgate is bending his own rules even further. The England boss is now allowing his players to spend 24 hours with their WAGs and families today.

England's football stars are currently staying in a secluded luxury resort, offering them maximum privacy. The team had planned a brief break with their partners after the second match, a schedule set before the tournament began.

However, England's uncertain result against Denmark means qualification is still up for grabs, despite hopes of securing their position as Group C winners by this weekend.

All partners and wives, including Lewis Dunk's girlfriend Abi Yaxley, Jordan Pickford's wife Megan Davison, and Ollie Watkins' partner Ellie Alderson, have been invited to join the England camp. However, it remains to be seen whether Annie Kilner, Kyle Walker's wife, who reportedly preferred to fly in and out of Germany for each game, will be part of the weekend gathering.

Southgate, the Three Lions' coach, has opted for a lavish golf resort as the team's base - away from the hustle and bustle but packed with world-class amenities. Post-match family time was also encouraged by Southgate after their game in Gelsenkirchen last Sunday.

Following England's opening match against Serbia, players' families got to hang out at camp on Monday, and Southgate's policy of keeping the doors open will carry on even after their last game in Cologne. These arrangements are way different from the media chaos that unfolded in Baden-Baden back in 2006,with many families opting not to stay nearby, although they're all invited to drop by.

Meanwhile, Ollie Watkins, England's forward, touted his liking for the set-up earlier this week: "I had family for the game, which was nice. They'll come over, for sure. The facilities are top. But it's nice the staff go the extra mile and put on these days in your down time to spend with your family. It's hard being away from home for a long period of time and not seeing young kids and family. It's nice."

Fans and critics have questioned Southgate's decisions, which have become a subject of heated debate, such as leaving fan-favourite Jack Grealish out of his final 26-man squad

Furthermore, his tactics regarding Phil Foden have faced criticism, with many arguing for utilising him at the centre instead of the wings.