Triesman bribe claim dents England World Cup bid

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.

The 66-year-old peer, who also vacates the same role with the FA, announced his decision following a hastily arranged meeting with the FA board at Wembley yesterday.

The meeting was called in the wake of allegations made in the Mail on Sunday, which suggested Triesman told a former aide that Spain were planning to bribe referees at this summer’s World Cup and offer their support to Russia’s bid for the 2018 World Cup if they were to help.