England’s unofficial World Cup mascot Dave the cat joins squad leaving Qatar hotel as he prepares for new life in UK
IT wasn’t all doom and gloom for England after their heartbreaking World Cup quarter-final defeat to France.
The Three Lions’ unofficial tournament mascot, Dave the cat, began his journey to the UK as Gareth Southgate’s squad also headed for home.
Dave became the squad’s mascot after joining England stars at meal times during their stay in Qatar.
John Stones and Kyle Walker pledged to adopt their furry friend if England won the World Cup.
But, despite crashing out 2-1 to France on Saturday, Dave is still heading to the UK to be rehomed.
He was seen being loaded into a crate to begin his journey shortly after Jack Grealish, Harry Maguire and Co left their Souq Al Wakrah hotel today.
But Dave didn’t have a ticket on England’s flight home.
Instead he was sent off to an appointment with the vet to have blood tests just two hours after the squad left, according to PA.
Dave has also been booked in for vaccines before he can be reunited with the team.
He is expected to join up with his England pals in around four months time.
BETTING SPECIAL – BEST BETTING APPS FOR THE WORLD CUP
Stones fell for the cat when he strolled into the team’s five-star training base on their first day in Qatar.
While Walker also spoke about Dave in the build up to last night’s match against France.
The defender said: “Dave is fine. He had a little scrap with another cat the other night.
“I think they are fighting over territory and the food. But he’s doing well.
“Hopefully I can stick to my promise that he will come home with us if we were to win the World Cup. Dave’s fine, thank you for asking.”