England may have a prayer of winning the world cup after the Bishop of Croydon wrote three especially for the football competition.

With less than three weeks to go until the opening match against the USA in South Africa, the Church of England has published three prayers written by avid football fan the Rt Rev Nick Baines.

The Liverpool fan has written two prayers for the teams, the hosts and the fans and one for those who have not been gripped by the football mania.

The Bishop, who had help from Rev Peter Moger in writing the prayers, said: “"More than half the population pray at some time and everyone will be affected by the World Cup in one way or another, so it makes sense to have some prayers for those that want to use them.

"This isn't just about football; it's about the rainbow nations of the world celebrating together with the people of South Africa."

The prayers ask for blessings on all those involved, for generous sportsmanship and for the competition to be a source of celebration.

Prayers for all those involved in the World Cup Lord of all the nations, who played the cosmos into being, guide, guard and protect all who work or play in the World Cup.

May all find in this competition a source of celebration, an experience of common humanity and a growing attitude of generous sportsmanship to others.

Amen.

God of the nations, who has always called his people to be a blessing for the world, bless all who take part in the World Cup.

Smile on South Africa in her hosting, on the nations represented in competition and on those who travel to join in the party.

Amen.

A prayer for those simply not interested Lord, as all around are gripped with World Cup fever, bless us with understanding, strengthen us with patience and grant us the gift of sympathy if needed.

Amen.