The institute points out the World Cup, about to start its 21st set of matches, is a great opportunity for businesses around the world to capitalise from employees’ national pride. However, the tournament hosts many games during work causing workers to have to potentially miss games, which can cause staff to feel unmotivated.

Clive Lewis, head of enterprise at the ICAEW, advised: ‘Reduced productivity is an issue in the UK at the moment, and to avoid staff becoming disinterested during the World Cup, make sure you have set out arrangements for when games clash with work.’

There is a month of viewing from the first game between the host nation, Russia, and Saudi Arabia on 14 June, and the final on 15 July, with 64 games in between. England are playing in their sixth consecutive World Cup, with their opening game against Tunisia timetabled for 18 June.

Lewis says companies need to make sure they are clear to staff what they can expect to ensure there are no red cards. Suggested topics include whether employees will be allowed to watch games at work – England’s second match in the group stage, against Panama, is scheduled for 1pm UK time.

If companies are showing England games, they should consider their stance on allowing other employees who support different countries to watch their games.

They may also want to consider whether they will be monitoring employee productivity during the games, and whether employees will be allowed to keep up with the scores via internet searches on their phones or laptops.

Lewis advises that employers should also think about whether there is a way to ensure employees who are not football fans do not miss out on any benefits.

He said: ‘Don’t forget, the World Cup is an excellent time to bond with employees and enjoy some national pride, so don’t go offside and annoy staff.’

Report by Pat Sweet