FA to explore Cup options

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However, the FA are likely to resist urgings from the Government to make a more positive statement of intent until they are sure of political support within FIFA and UEFA.

The FA spent around £4million on the failed bid for the 2006 tournament - a third of the total cost - and are proceeding cautiously before committing a similar sum to a fresh campaign for 2018.

Meanwhile, Brazil are facing up to the daunting task of building or completely refurbishing 10 stadia after being formally appointed hosts of the 2014 World Cup.

FIFA inspectors said the Brazilian football federation had estimated £550million as the budget for building and renewing the grounds, but that figure appears very optimistic.

So basic are the facilities at the moment that most of the stadia are not even equipped for television commentary.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter said however that he had been impressed by Brazil's plans for 2014 despite the fact they were the only bidders.

He also said hosting the World Cup could encourage more Brazilian players to stay in domestic football.

Blatter said: "This is the country that has given to the world the best football and the best footballers, five times world champions, and if we don't stop the invasion of Brazilian footballers (to other leagues) then in years to come we may have only Brazilians in all the national teams!"