England’s World Cup hotel is surrounded by anti-terrorism barriers – and guarded by armed police.
Daily Mail Sport has visited The Inn at Meadowbrook in Kansas City, where Thomas Tuchel and his Three Lions will be based for the tournament.
Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Co do not arrive until Saturday but it can be disclosed that a series of security measures are already in place at the hotel, which is set in the middle of a park in an upscale neighbourhood.
All sides of the boutique hotel, which is modelled on an English inn, are protected by a number of heavy concrete barriers – similar to those found on iconic London bridges – laid strategically apart at a certain distances, to prevent rogue vehicles from entering the property.
Armed police officers are already in place at the entrance to the hotel, beside a ‘no entry’ sign.
A series of 10ft black screens have also been placed around the external areas of the 54-room facility which is overlooked by an apartment complex, presumably so England’s stars can relax away from prying eyes.
England’s hotel base is The Inn at Meadowbrook, in Kansas City
Concrete barriers are spread wide to prevent vehicles gaining access to the hotel
England flags on the side of the road are welcoming Thomas Tuchel and his side
Tuchel’s side has taken over the entirety of the hotel, with staff effectively furloughed.
And it would appear that the FA are planning for all eventualities, with the Inn’s The Market at Meadowbrook cafe and Verbena cafe, both popular with locals, closed from Wednesday until July 19 – which is the day of the final.
A no-fly zone for drones is also in place over the area for the duration of the tournament.
England have chosen to stay in Kansas City despite playing group games in Dallas, New York and Boston. The city’s central location was key to the decision, along with the fact the Three Lions should not face a flight of more than four hours. Indeed, the city’s airport is known as MCI – Mid-Continent International.
Daily Mail Sport previously reported that England had previously requested a larger ring of steel which had been turned down by local police. However, it would appear that little is being left to chance.
Two temporary marquees have also been installed at the property, which are understood to house additional facilities including an extended gym.
Meanwhile, locals at Meadowbrook Park are rolling out the red carpet for their guests. A series of signs reading ‘Good luck England’ and ‘Welcome England’ have been placed at the side of the road – while houses are displaying mini St George’s crosses in their front gardens.
England are training at nearby Swope Soccer Village, and are expected to be given an armed escort for the 20-minute journey.
