Jordan Pickford’s local plans big cheer as pubs grapple Covid rules and Euro 2020 crowds

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Regulars in Jordan Pickford’s local pub in Wearside are preparing to cheer him on during England’s Euro 2020 quarter-final clash — one of thousands of pubs gearing up for a huge sporting weekend while still trying to maintain social distancing restrictions. open image in gallery England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford pictured with Harry Maguire and Harry Kane during a training session at St George’s Park “We are a big rugby town so I’m hoping people get caught up in the euphoria, and if it carries on after Saturday then it can only be good for the Lions team.” Sinead Murphy, who manages the White Horse, the closest pub to Wembley stadium in London, suspects Saturday won’t be as hectic as Tuesday, when England won 2-0 against Germany, but is looking forward to seeing busy trade nonetheless. “The last match we showed was the England game on Friday and we did abide by all the rules, but we still believe that’s when it came into the building.” open image in gallery England fans celebrate in Trafalgar Square after England beat Germany 2-0 on Tuesday He says the pair are hoping for “a little boost” in sales this weekend but “it’s very difficult”. Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the BBPA, said: “As fans will not be able to attend the next match in Rome due to Covid restrictions, I urge England fans to support the team – and our pubs – by watching the game at their local where they can.” Nigel Bunting, director of retail and tenanted pubs at Shepherd Neame, the country’s oldest brewer, added: “Such occasions do drive additional footfall to our pubs as people come together to socialise safely and celebrate the football, with an upturn in the drinks trade and less demand for meals.