RUSSIA! After a short delay the 22 executives finally reached a decision and the announcement made by Sepp Blatter, President of FIFA.
England's presentation , this morning, was a good one. Built around Eddie Afekafe's story (on the dole, no future, volunteers for Manchester City Youth Project, football changes his life) it featured David Beckham, David Cameron and Prince William. With a film that showed nations around the world watching English Football the presentation was slick and well presented. It seemed to be well received by all and Sepp Blatter called it remarkable.
Outdoor screens were erected around the country including Birmingham, London and Manchester and crowds gathered to hear the result. I don't know how it came about but this announcement became "an event". Was it the hope of a nation or was it the media building it up?
As the announcements began, rumours started circulating that England had been knocked out in the first round of voting. This proved to be true and it means that England will not host the World Cup until at least 2030.
FIFA have, once again, ruined my football dreams.
