FA back England's 2018 World Cup bid

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A meeting of the FA board on Wednesday decided to launch a bid after FIFA's decision on Monday to scrap rotation of the tournament.

FA chairman Geoff Thompson said: "I'm delighted to announce our intention to bid to host the World Cup in 2018. This follows FIFA's announcement on Monday that the previous rotation policy will be discontinued, and the positive comments made by FIFA president Sepp Blatter."

He added: "The tremendous support from Prime Minister Gordon Brown and his government has also been a key consideration in today's decision.

"I'm delighted the FA board have been so positive in their support for a bid. It would be tremendous for English football and the whole country if we are successful."

FA chief executive Brian Barwick added: "This is a great moment for all of us who love the game in this country. The excitement and expectation from the public to a prospective bid has been incredible.

"It is very clear that the English football public want to see the World Cup back in this country."

The announcement comes as a surprise as only yesterday FA chiefs were being extremely cautious about doing anything more positive than commissioning a feasibility study.

Barwick did, however, admit England were in an excellent position to win a bid.

He added: "We believe we have a very strong case for making a successful bid and hosting a wonderful tournament. The work now begins to bring the World Cup back to England."