Bid chiefs turn to star quality

Lord Triesman has confirmed Prince William and David Beckham will act as main cheerleaders for England's 2018 World Cup bid.

Beckham was heavily involved in the successful battle to win the Olympics for London and remains an iconic global figure.

"Some people advised me to get two or three very famous footballers and send them around the world," said Triesman. "But these FIFA guys meet very famous footballers all the time. It's not a surprise to them."

He added: "The footballers have to bring something else as well. David Beckham does and another person in that generation, does as well - Prince William. They are capable of having an extraordinary impact."

Triesman also feels the bid will bring the FA and Premier League back together again.

Rifts between the two organisations have opened in recent months amid concern over the Respect campaign, claims that the top flight are not being listened to enough and Sir Trevor Brooking's outspoken criticisms of youth development.

But Triesman knows the Premier League's global appeal will be crucial in gathering support ahead of the vote of the 24-man FIFA executive in December 2010.

"This bid truly should bring the FA and Premier League together," said the FA chairman.

"I have not met anybody in any of the clubs, including the overseas owners, who doesn't want us to go for it.

"They are up for it. There is much more broad sympathy between groups than in the past, when they have not always meshed together. That is encouraging."