FIFA president Sepp Blatter insists he's pleased England have qualified for next year's World Cup.

"It's always important when the motherland of football is participating in the World Cup," said Blatter.

"Even more so perhaps in this case, South Africa being a member of the Commonwealth.

"The English will bring a lot to the tournament, on and off the field. With (Fabio) Capello, something has definitely changed for the good. I have sent a letter to the FA saying how pleased we were at FIFA. I know for a fact that South Africa is really happy."