Blatter expects 'strong' England bid

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The world governing body have confirmed the hosts for the 2018 and 2022 World Cups will be decided at the same time - but have not put any block on countries bidding for both.

"England is a strong candidate, because it is a strong country in football," said Blatter.

"They are strong. But there are other candidates that are strong as well; Spain is also strong - and if you look at all the candidates you see that the fight is open."

Apart from 1982 hosts Spain, Russia and a joint bid from Belgium, the Netherlands and Luxembourg are also expected - with Australia, Qatar, China, Japan, Mexico, the United States and Canada also hinting at applications.

Football Association chairman Lord Triesman is in Tokyo to meet key FIFA figures, with the political work moving up a further notch next month when 2018 bid chief executive Andy Anson takes up his full-time post.

Bid registration forms will be issued by FIFA from next month, with the decisions on who hosts which tournaments to take place in December 2010.

Having not hosted a World Cup since 1966, England should be among the favourites.

But arguments between England's main powers have undermined the desire for a united front, while doubts have also been raised over the amount the Government are willing to contribute - given the level of funds that have been washing around in the sport thanks to massively increased TV deals.