Players juggle fatherhood with Russia World Cup

Having a baby is even more important than playing in the World Cup for some.

Three dads-to-be have made trips home from Russia to welcome a child, with the blessing of coaches and teammates.

Fabian Delph will likely miss England's match against Colombia in the round of 16 while awaiting the birth of his third child.

"Some things in life are more important than football," England coach Gareth Southgate said Monday.

"His focus needs to be with his family at this time."

Southgate echoed a view of parenting that runs through the World Cup.

England's Fabian Delph. (AAP)

Switzerland forward Breel Embolo is preparing to face Sweden on Tuesday after dashing home within hours of a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica last week.

The 21-year-old saw his daughter born and described it as "the most beautiful 24 hours" of his life.

The family-friendly trend was started by Denmark's players, who helped send teammate Jonas Knudsen home in a private jet.

The Dane's daughter was not due until after the tournament, but the team wanted him to see her right away.

In soccer, players fulfil their family duties at the discretion of team leaders.

Denmark's Jonas Knudsen. (AAP)

The subject is still a dilemma for Sweden captain Andreas Granqvist, who on Tuesday is set to play against Switzerland in what is likely his last World Cup at the age of 33.

Granqvist has stayed in Russia with the approval of his wife, Sofie, who is overdue to give birth to their second child in Sweden.

"I'm fully focused on the game tomorrow and my wife is very strong," Granqvist said Monday.

Southgate acknowledged his decision to release Delph, who played in England's two previous games, would not always have been approved.

"My father's generation and those before them would view that differently," said the England coach, who is building a reputation for smart and thoughtful handling of his players.

"But you have got to be there for your family."