Euro 2008: Irish/Scots bid 'makes progress'

The Scottish Football Association have made ‘‘considerable progress’’ in their plans to submit a joint bid to host Euro 2008 with Ireland.

Senior officials of the Football Association of Ireland and their counterparts in the SFA met yesterday to discuss the way ahead for the bid.

SFA chief executive David Taylor is confident both nations are capable of hosting a successful event.

He said: ‘‘I am very encouraged that we have made considerable progress in setting up the organisational structure for the bid, and have agreed one vision, one aim and one set of objectives.

‘‘We will work together to submit a high-quality bid and run a professional campaign that will highlight Scotland and Ireland’s position as suitable host nations for Euro 2008.

‘‘I have no doubt that we will be able to run a successful tournament, both commercially and organisationally, and that it will be enjoyed by millions.

‘‘Hosting the championships would raise the profile of Scotland and Ireland as credible venues for hosting major sporting events, with consequent tourism benefits, and could ensure a lasting legacy for football development in Scotland and Ireland.’’