This is truly a little known fact that's been kept firmly under wraps by agents, managers and footballers wives. So don't you go telling anyone because you're the first to know outside that hallowed inner circle.
Are they really injured for the Under 21 international or is it that they are hot on the trail of some rare philatelic bargains? Are they actually in self-enforced exile in Argentina? We think not, that'll be the hunt for those rare triangular stamps without perforations.
Could the chairmen be putting their clubs close to bankruptcy for a rare collection of Victorian Penny Blacks? Entirely possible!
Look who's making the stamp mounts too, now is that proof or what?
We have always thought there were poker schools on the team coach but no, it's all about stamp albums, first day covers and swaps. With such financial clout could this spell the end for small-time hobby stamp collectors? We must get into Europe they say, well now you know why. There are 'no easy games in Europe' (but San Marino's beautiful stamps are hard to choose from), it's all in code you see.
Remember you heard it here first, not on Sky Sport, it's no wonder they are all looking forward to the European Championships.