England look set to be the only home nation going to next summer’s World Cup finals in Russia, according to odds specialists OddsMonkey.
With only a couple of games remaining in the qualifiers England have all but wrapped up their place at the World Cup – but the path is not looking as easy for the rest.
As Scotland are in the same group as England, they can at best finish second – but odds are against them to do that.
Northern Ireland are in Group C which has all but been won by Germany, but they have wrapped up second place – which will mean a play-off to make it to Russia. The runners-up from 8 of the 9 groups face-off with the worst ranked team not even getting the chance.
Wales and Republic of Ireland are battling it out in Group D – but again second is as good as either can hope for.
Having looked at the odds, OddsMonkey believes that the Three Lions could be the only British side making the trip to Russia.
“England are all but there, 1/33 to win the Group,” said OddsMonkey spokesman Peter Watton.
“But after that the rest look like they have a tough task on their hands. Northern Ireland are there, and Wales are 2/5 to join them – but look at who they could be playing against. Looking at the markets, you will be seeing Italy, Sweden, Bosnia, Iceland and even European champions Portugal.
“It is not looking good for British football fans, they could very well only have Gareth Southgate’s England to cheer on in Russia come next summer.”
