Hundreds of Americans living near England's World Cup headquarters in Prairie Village, Kansas, are showing strong support for the Three Lions. The Mirror gained exclusive access to the team's base, a 54-room, £260-a-night property, and found locals eager to cheer on the squad.
Local Support for England
Judi and Elvin Knight, residents of Kansas City, are among the many fans backing England. Judi, wearing an England shirt given to her for Mother's Day, expressed excitement: "We are so excited to have the team here. The Prairie Village community will all be behind England." Her husband Elvin, an NFL fan, noted the growing popularity of soccer in the US, especially among children aged 8 to 12.
Security Measures
A no-fly zone and a three-tiered security plan have been implemented around the team hotel, involving Fifa, the US Department of Homeland Security, and local police. Armed police and private security guards are patrolling the perimeter to ensure safety amid concerns over gun crime and terror threats.
First England Fans Arrive
The Mirror met the first England fans in Kansas City, Stephen and Zena Willis from Northumberland. Stephen, a retired Royal Regiment of Fusiliers veteran, said: "We didn't know England would be based here, but we had to come and see it. We love England." The couple wore Newcastle United shirts as they took in the sights, including Union flags flying alongside the Stars and Stripes.
Training Base Optimism
England's training base, Victory Field, is seen as a good omen. Hundreds of children from local mini-leagues were playing nearby, adding to the festive atmosphere. Security officials prevented photography of the training complex to avoid spying, a concern for all 48 teams in the tournament.
