FIFA Vice President Jack Warner has been an interesting figure on the international scene for some time, but his recent trip to Stamford Bridge for the Leaders In Football summit where he was given a promotional bag promoting Australia’s 2018 or 2022 World Cup bid afforded the 66 year old an opportunity to talk about what he thought England needed most to land the our game on the biggest stage.

Via Guardian 

Warner today suggested David Beckham or a figure such as the Queen could play a role in bringing the tournament to England by visiting decision makers. “I came here and was shocked that I got a bag for Australia at the entrance,” said Warner, who holds three votes as Concacaf president and could influence another two. “I wouldn’t have allowed it. Why isn’t there a bag for England? People are looking at these things and asking themselves questions.

“My colleagues are saying very quietly that the guys who are coming to them are lightweight. This is the type of thing that loses you a bid. You have to look at what others are doing and also be creative yourself – these things are not happening.”

Warner feels England could be successful if they use their attributes and become more aggressive. “I feel England do not exploit their attributes. I would take Beckham and make him my ambassador in countries where people are going to vote,” he said. “England’s attributes surpasses any other country. I would have been more aggressive in the market place.

“If I had the Premier League, Beckham and the Queen, there would have been many things I could have done for the people who are voting. I would have made them next-door neighbours to make them the first name of people’s lips. In Rio last week, the first name on people’s lips was Spain, then Russia. I have friends in England and know about the trauma of 2006 – I am saying if they do not get their act together they will lose. You have no divine right to anything – you have to earn it.”

Image via Daylife