The FA 'deeply concerned' over FIFA kick-off change plan for Mexico vs England

The Football Association (FA) are said to be 'deeply concerned' over the impact a potential kick-off time change for Mexico versus England could have on travelling supporters.

The World Cup last 16 clash was due to get underway at 1pm UK time (6pm local) in Mexico City.

But FIFA are in discussions over changing the kick-off time and, according to BBC Sport, are set to move it forward to 7pm UK time (12pm local).

The Met Office are forecasting potential thunderstorms for around an hour before kick-off in Mexico City which would threaten delays if the kick-off stays at its original time.

FIFA are yet to officially comment or provide an explanation over the plans.

READ MORE: FIFA considering Mexico vs England kick-off time change in unprecedented decision

A Brazilian Football Federation (CBF) spokesperson told The Athletic that 'a change is possible' when asked whether the last 16 clash between Brazil and Norway, which takes place on the same day in New Jersey, could be moved.

Mexico versus England starts two hours (in Eastern Time) prior to Brazil versus Norway, meaning there is a possibility of the former overlapping should it go to extra time or penalties.

There is no explicit rule that states games must be moved to avoid any overlaps but it appears that FIFA would prefer to avoid that possibility.

READ MORE: Second World Cup game could be moved as Mexico vs England causes major FIFA headache

What the FA know about Mexico vs England plans

At first, though, all attention will be on the expected decision over the start time of Mexico versus England.

There were initially contrasting reports over the scale of the FA's knowledge of any discussions, but English football's governing body has now told various outlets that no kick-off time change has been confirmed or communicated with them.

The Daily Mirror report that they are 'deeply concerned' over the impact that a seven-hour kick-off change would have on fans travelling to the Estadio Azteca in the hours before the game gets underway.

It is claimed that the FA were only made aware of discussions when reports initially broke in the Mexican media at around 6pm UK time.

National outlet Claro Sports first reported that the game was set to be moved.

Neither the FA nor the Mexican Football Federation have been given official confirmation that a change will be made, despite there now being just two days before kick-off.

SPORTbible have contacted the FA for comment but are yet to receive a response.

The England contingent are believed to have travelled to Mexico City on Friday, having initially delayed their journey as manager Thomas Tuchel and his coaching staff finalised their preparations.

Those preparations would no doubt have to be tweaked if a kick-off change is made, as temperatures are forecast to be up to five degrees Celsius warmer at an earlier time in the day in Mexico City.