The FA welcomes the government's feasibility study into a possible English bid for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

FAChief Executive Brian Barwick said: "Government backing is a central part of any successful World Cup bid and this study underlines this government's commitment to bringing the world's biggest sports events to these shores.

"Sport also cuts across political lines and we realise that cross-party support is essential if England is to lead in achieving sporting success, both in terms of hosting and winning major competitions.

"FIFA have not yet announced which continent will be awarded the 2018 World Cup, but if it does come to Europe The FA will give very serious consideration to a bid.

"We have the stadiums, the infrastructure, a multi-cultural society and a passion for the game that few countries can match. In addition, every major European football nation has hosted the World Cup since 1966.

"It is also hugely encouraging that there is such a groundswell of public support for a World Cup in England. As we saw last year in Germany, when the host country gets behind the competition, it gives it an extra buzz, and the colour and atmosphere of an English World Cup would be something really special.

"We got a taste of that cosmopolitan flavour last week when ten teams from five continents played in front of close to 150,000 fans, underlining this country's worldwide appeal as a venue for international football.

"A World Cup in England would give a boost not only to football at all levels, but also other sports and the nation as a whole."