Are English football fans safe at this year’s World Cup?

It could be a concern, with MPs expressing fears over the government’s “vague reassurances”.

With 10,000 UK nationals expected to attend matches at Russia 2018, the Foreign Affairs Committee has published a report into the Foreign and Commonwealth Office's plan to keep them safe.

The report comes after the British government accused Russia of trying to assassinate a former Russian spy in March.

MPs worry that UK visitors are at serious risk of homophobic, racist and anti-British attacks.

They have good reason to be wary because the UK was targeted by Russian hooligans at the 2016 European Championships in France.

These factors have reduced the size of England's usually large and loud following but the select committee is still worried that British diplomats in Russia may not be able to cope if problems arise.

In a statement, the committee's chairman Tom Tugendhat said: "The safety and security of UK fans visiting the 2018 World Cup is the responsibility of the Russian government. But the Foreign Office has a duty to offer consular support to all UK fans making the trip to Russia.

"At this late stage, the FCO should be able to demonstrate it can communicate swiftly with all the fans who travel - from basic information announcements to security advice, if required. This includes BAME (black, Asian and minority ethnic) and LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) fans.

"Vague reassurances from Foreign Office ministers have not been enough to reassure us that UK nationals will be safe, regardless of their background or sexual orientation."

So...how can you stay safe in Russia?

Be alert to the possibility of mugging, pickpocketing and theft. Try not to carry around any expensive items.

Avoid looking too much like a tourist, you will be a very easy target.

If you can avoid walking around late at night - do.

Be very wary of women and children who beg

Use a taxi app if you can. There are lots unlicensed taxis out there and they are notorious for targeting tourists.

Bogus police officers have harassed and robbed tourists. If you are stopped, always insist on seeing identification.

People of Asian or Afro-Caribbean descent may attract unwanted attention in public places and should take care, particularly when travelling late at night.

All railway stations have airport-style security. All bags will be scanned and passengers will need to go through detector arches.

Political rallies and demonstrations occur in large cities across Russia, usually with notice and permission from the authorities.

Unauthorised demonstrations can lead to a robust response from the Russian authorities, occasionally leading to violence.