Responding to those stories, Euro ’96 hero Paul Gascoigne said it was a “nonsense” and that the Football Association had “totally lost the plot”.
The FA’s response was swift and unequivocal.
“Contrary to reports this morning, the FA still plays Three Lions at major Wembley matches and has never had any intention of doing otherwise,” it said.
“The song belongs to the fans and is about the hope of following the England team.
“It was requested by the FA to be played as one of our team songs at the 2018 World Cup and at the Euros last summer, and this is our plan going forwards.”
So the familiar refrain of “football’s coming home” will continue, as – no doubt – will talk of perceived English arrogance.