Coleen Rooney and the WAGs stay away from the World Cup

At the last Football World Cup, their antics in the exclusive hotels and designer boutiques often overshadowed England's efforts on the football pitch.

But this year, some of the most highprofile WAGs have decided to stay home, instead of braving South Africa's unwelcoming winter weather.

Wayne Rooney's wife, Coleen, who gave birth to the couple's first son in November, is among those staying home. "Coleen and most of the other girls have decided it would be better if they stay at home," a source told The Mail on Sunday. "Coleen has made tentative plans to go if England get through to the final, otherwise she will be staying put.

"She has arranged to throw some big match parties for friends and family and she will be inviting the other Wags to come and hopefully celebrate.

"Steven Gerrard's wife, Alex Curran, feels the same way and has also said she will be staying at home. She has two small children and doesn't want the upheaval.

"If it was closer to home, Alex probably would go, as it would nip the rumours that their marriage was in trouble in the bud, but there's no incentive for her to go. It's winter over there, another reason to stay in England," the source added.

Joe Cole's wife, Carly Zucker, has also said she does not plan to fly to South Africa, even though it will mean missing their first wedding anniversary. Carly gave birth to the couple's baby in March and wants to stay in England with their daughter.

"Of all the wives and girlfriends the only one who might be going is Abigail Clancy, Peter Crouch's girlfriend because she might have a modelling job lined up in South Africa," adds a source.

Some of the England team have said they would prefer wives and girlfriends not to attend the tournament. Frank Lampard, who is dating One Show presenter Christine Bleakley, has said: "I don't want the distraction."

Also absent will be Cheryl Cole, following the breakdown of her marriage to Ashley Cole. "Ashley is the last thing on her mind," a friend said. "Ashley has been bombarding her with calls and even asked to fly out to visit her while she is touring with the Black Eyed Peas. He is jealous of how close she is getting to rapper will.i.am."