Hands on Management

England’s World Cup clash with Argentina on June 7 could see the working world grind to a halt as thousands of workers take time off to watch the big game.

A survey by the BBC estimates about a third of the country’s workforce will go sick so they can tune in to the match. Employees are already booking leave for the crucial match — England’s second game in the tournament.

But many others say they are prepared to “take a sickie” if they cannot get time off.

The match against arch rivals Argentina is one most fans will not miss.

One survey has estimated that if England do well in the competition, this “football fever” could cost the economy more than ?3bn. Talking to BBC Radio Five Live, one unnamed supporter said, “I will be taking the day off either way. “If I cannot get the day off, I will take a sickie, but I’ll be watching it by hook or by crook.”

Many people are planning to watch the match at the pub or at gatherings with friends and family.

“Everyone I know is planning to take the Friday (tomorrow) off and making an all-day session of the whole thing,” said another England fan. “Everyone will be in the pub watching it.”

Employers have already been urged to have a “flexible” approach to the football World Cup, by bringing in a television and providing refreshments. Analysts at Resource Management advise companies to allow workers to stay at home to follow England’s fortunes in Korea and Japan. And the Football Supporters Association (FSA) claim firms could see more productivity if fans can tune in to their favourite matches.

If England do well in the tournament they could be taking part in as many as seven televised matches.

Lawyer Rachel Jones of law firm DLA, said managing unauthorised days off on match days in June is likely to be a major issue for firms. But she warned firms against taking stern action for staff missing work for the odd match.

Richard White of Resource Management said companies should “face facts” and aim to accommodate the football fans among their workforce.