David Triesman's alleged comments about England's rival bidders for the 2018 and 2022 World Cup are to come under further scrutiny after football's world governing body announced this evening that the FIFA ethics committee will investigate the statements.

Spanish football federation secretary general Jorge Perez Arias has labelled the idea of his country trying to bribe World Cup referees as “ridiculous”.

ENGLAND’S hopes of hosting the 2018 World Cup were dealt a blow yesterday after chairman for their bid David Triesman stood down from his post following allegations he accused the Spanish and Russian football federations of bribery.

David Triesman has stood down as chairman of the Football Association and the England 2018 World Cup following a meeting at Wembley today.