Three countries on 2010 standby

Fifa president Sepp Blatter has spoken to three countries about hosting the 2010 World Cup if a natural catastrophe forces it away from South Africa.

Concerns are mounting about South Africa's preparations for the hosting of the tournament.

"I have spoken to three possible, not only possible, but three associations and countries that would be able to stage the World Cup.

"They need one year (to prepare)," Blatter told Sky News.

Blatter would not reveal the three countries.

On Tuesday South Africa decided to drop the Port Elizabeth stadium from next June's Confederations Cup, as it will not be ready in time.

World Cup preparations have been plagued by stadium construction delays, security fears, transport problems and the possibility of power outages.

Last week Blatter said that world football's governing body had a "Plan B" should South Africa not be able to stage the World Cup.

At the time, he said that the tournament would only be taken away from South Africa in the most extreme circumstances, saying, "only a natural catastrophe would change things."

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