David Dein takes key role in England World Cup bid

Dein was already playing an informal role in the bid

Former Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein has been appointed international president of England's World Cup bid.

Dein is set to play a key role alongside chairman Lord Triesman in England's bid to host either the 2018 or 2022 World Cup.

"David has a huge amount of experience in world football and an excellent network of contacts," said Triesman.

"We are very pleased that he will be joining the team in such an important role for the crucial final 10 months."

England must submit their 'bid book' by 14 May. Fifa will then carry out an inspection visit in August or September ahead of the decision in December.

Dein was already playing an an informal role in the bid, but will now officially take charge of international relations.

"We are now entering a critical phase of the bid both domestically and internationally," said bid chief executive Andy Anson.

"We need to continue to concentrate on our message to the Fifa executive committee of why England is the right country to be awarded the honour of hosting the World Cup.

"David is able to give this international role his full focus and will play a key role in that advocacy within the campaign team."

The bid team also includes Fifa vice-president Geoff Thompson, Football League chairman Brian Mawhinney, former Chelsea defender Paul Elliott and Seb Coe, who led London's successful bid for the 2012 Olympics.

England's rivals for the 2018/2022 World Cup include a joint bid from Spain and Portugal, as well as Russia and Australia.

---

Countries bidding to host the World Cup

2018 or 2022: Australia, Belgium-Netherlands (joint bid), England, Indonesia, Japan, Portugal-Spain (joint bid), Russia, US

2022: Qatar, South Korea