The host nation for the 2018 World Cup will be chosen by FIFA in December 2010, Jerome Valcke, secretary general of world football's governing body, said.

England and a joint-bid by Belgium and the Netherlands are intended candidates and they could be joined by Spain and Russia who are mulling over whether to put their names in the ring.

Valcke said, "In attributing the 2018 World Cup at the end of 2010 we will be sticking to a similar timetable to the one used for Brazil (2014 hosts) which was chosen seven years in advance."

Turning to South Africa's preparations for the 2010 edition Valcke reported, "Certain elements will only be ready one month before the start of competition which doesn't leave much time if there's a problem."

He added that the 16 billion dollar investment in the country's transport infrastructure will "change the face of South Africa" and leave a real "legacy".