Speaking to TheFA.com, Director of Communications Adrian Bevington said: "A bid to bring the World Cup Finals back to England in 2018 will be given serious consideration.

"But it will be at least next autumn before we would put any definite proposals in place."

After the Treasury confirmed early talks about a bid between the Government and The FA have begun, Bevington added: "It's fantastic news that the Government, through the Treasury, have announced their support for any future bid.

"But, in terms of the precise nature of any such bid, that won't be decided on for another year or so."