A major pub chain is asking football fans to pay a £5 deposit when booking to watch England play in the World Cup. 

Greene King is asking punters for the money to secure a table on game days to “guarantee the very best in-pub atmosphere”. 

Its terms and conditions state: “Guests will be required to pay £5pp for England games (in an English pub) and £5pp for Scotland games (in a Scottish pub) during the World Cup to secure their booking.

“We require 72 hours’ notice in the event of a cancellation for this to be refunded.” 

The £5 deposit can be redeemed against food or drinks at the pub.

Greene King has around 2,600 pubs across the UK and doesn’t normally charge a deposit for bookings. 

A spokesperson for the chain said: “We are proud to show live sport in our pubs and create a great atmosphere for fans. 

“On some occasions, a deposit is required. 

“This is not an additional charge for our customers and it is 100% redeemable against food or drinks. 

“We do this to guarantee the very best in-pub atmosphere and experience for fans who want to come together and reserve the best seats for the games.”