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Heightened emotions as a result of the World Cup could lead to more depressed people contacting the Samaritans.

A spokesperson for the charity said that events of national significance always resulted in an increased number of calls, and volunteers expect more people to ring in because of the football.

"Something very important can act as a trigger and can exacerbate feelings of isolation," she said.

However the tournament is unlikely to be the main reason to call, she added, and it is more likely to act as an icebreaker for conversation about deeper issues.

"Something as neutral and as common a language as football makes it easier to speak," she said.

Samaritan volunteers have reported Ireland star Roy Keane's name being frequently mentioned in calls after he left the national squad.