England at centre of sabotage plot with important request made before Mexico showdown

England have made a special hotel request in a bid to thwart attempts to disrupt their preparations for the World Cup round of 16 clash against Mexico.

After Harry Kane inspired a late win over DR Congo, the Three Lions will take on El Tri on their own turf on Sunday and must contend with the high altitude of the Azteca Stadium.

The Mexico City ground sits at 7,200 ft above sea level, with Thomas Tuchel already noting the huge "disadvantage" his players will face because of the thinner air.

But the other issue England are looking to bypass is the disturbances from Mexico supporters outside their hotel.

In the last round, the Ecuadorian Football Federation filed a complaint to FIFA over the behaviour of Mexico fans who kept them up to the early hours before they meet in the last 32 by setting off fireworks and creating further loud noise through car engine revving, drum banging and chanting.

READ MORE: England delay trip to Mexico City over spying concerns but fans aren't convinced

The statement said: "This conduct is far removed from the principles of fair play, equality and unity that a football World Cup should represent".

Widespead reports claim that the supporters are planning on repeating their antics for the England showdown.

FIFA rules stipulate that teams must arrive 24 hours before the fixture but are allowed to do so two days before - something England will be doing in a change from their approach this tournament.

Even still, the threat of Mexico fans causing chaos outside persists - with The Sun reporting that journalists in the country are planning a sabotage mission by leaking the hotel England are staying at.

Their hotel arrangements have been kept a secret but that could well change if Mexican reporters find out the exact location.

Local police are set to be present but The Athletic say security protocols are expected to include roadblocks around the perimeter to stop anyone from getting nearby.

Roadblocks being brought in are said to be signed off on a case-by-case basis.

It's also being reported that England players will have an eye-mask and ear plugs to help them sleep. Tuchel has already spoken about potential disturbances, commenting: "We will expect that (noise outside the hotel). But what can we do? We will bring earplugs. I expect everything."

England's deliberate travel approach to avoid spying before Mexico clash

England are expected to be in the Mexico capital longer than they have been anywhere else for games. But Mike Keegan from the Daily Mail reported that England also took deliberate measures to avoid any potential spying.

Instead of flying straight to their next destination after the DR Congo win, England flew back to their Kansas City base.

According to the report, one of the main reasons in doing so is to avoid any spying risks and tactical plans getting out.

The base in Kansas City is seen as extremely secure and well guarded by police.

Security guards are located at different points whenever training sessions are taking place, limiting the risk of vital information circulating.