The World Cup is almost here but if you're stuck at work or have to battle for the right to the television at home, you're going to miss out on all the goals, the near-misses, the spectacular dives and the thrill of guessing whose metatarsal bone is going to break next. Short of pulling a world record number of sickies, what can you do?

Step forward the WinTV USB from Hauppauge, a tiny gadget that plugs into your home or work PC's USB port and turns it in to a television set. The supplied software tunes in the channels automatically and you can watch the matches in full screen mode or - if you're feeling really sneaky - in a small window next to that vital spreadsheet you've been working on all morning.

Anyone trying to watch the games while pretending to work will also have to figure out how to hide the indoor aerial, which you'll need to buy separately (running wires under your clothes along your arms and legs is not recommended). If you want to hear the BBC's commentary, you'll also need a soundcard and speakers or headphones.

The Hauppauge WinTV USB is priced at £49.99 (£20 off the normal retail price) until the end of June and is available from selected high street stores, including Carphone Warehouse, PC World and John Lewis.