Sir Ronnie Flanagan, the former chief constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, has been appointed as a security advisor for England's World Cup bid. Flanagan will help in compiling the section on safety and security in England's bid presentation document.

Flanagan said: "The World Cup tournament is a festival of soccer and the most important element from my perspective is that people are safe and feel safe - whether they are players, officials or supporters. I shall be doing all I can to support the 2018 bid team with their planning for their presentation to FIFA."

Bid chief executive Andy Anson added: "Having someone with Ronnie's experience and expertise on board will be a major benefit. Safety and security is clearly an important part of the whole process and Sir Ronnie's advice and support will be invaluable."