POLICE fear a surge in domestic violence involving boozed-up football fans during the World Cup.
Researchers predict the number of attacks to be up by a third if England lose a match and to increase by 26 per cent even if they win.
Essex Police is targeting known offenders in the run-up to the tournament.
Det Supt Ewen Wilson said: “There are a number of reasons why the rise in domestic abuse is linked to the times when England are playing a match.
“These can include such things as stress, poor anger management, mental health issues, depression and substance abuse.”
Alcohol and hot weather are also expected to make a difference.
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