FA Chief Executive Brian Barwick said today: “While we are still to confirm if we will launch a bid to host the 2018 World Cup, today’s news is very encouraging.

"It is exactly what we were hoping for and we will now discuss a timetable for a potential bid.

“We have already received tremendous support from Prime Minister Gordon Brown and the Government, and we all recognise the importance of government support in any bidding process.

“The successful campaign which saw London awarded the 2012 Olympic Games has already shown what can be achieved.

“We realise there will be strong competition involved in any bidding process, but we know that England has fantastic stadiums, a unique tradition and passion for the game and also a very strong infrastructure already in place.

“I have always said that when the World Cup is next played in Europe, there is a very strong argument for holding it in England.

“If we do bid, and England is awarded the 2018 World Cup, I’m sure it would be brilliant for English football and the whole country.”