England has unveiled a number of influential supporters as the countdown to find out who will host the 2018 FIFA World Cup draws to a close.

Footballers naturally dominate the list, with Sir Bobby Charlton, Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, Andy Cole and John Barnes set to join a 30-man party led by Football Association president Prince William.

Pictured: David Beckham and Wayne Rooney show their support for England 2018

The vote is scheduled to take place in Zurich on December 2nd.

Outside of football England 2018 has also been galvanised by a number of sporting legends, with names like boxing legend Sir Henry Cooper, six time major-winning golfer Sir Nick Faldo and former England cricket Captain Sir Ian Botham all offering their support.

Also supporting England 2018 are rower Sir Steve Redgrave, one of only four Olympians to have won a gold medal at five consecutive Olympic Games, Sir Clive Woodward, who famously coached the England rugby team to World Cup glory in Australia in 2003, and double Olympic gold-winning athlete Dame Kelly Holmes.

 

David Beckham and prime minister David Cameron have already been announced as members of the delegation.

England 2018 chief executive Andy Anson stated: “We have said throughout the process that this bid has the backing of the whole country and the nature of this line-up confirms that point.

“Next week is clearly critical because it is our last chance to convince the FIFA executive committee members who are voting that England should be their choice for 2018.

“We will be campaigning and working right up to the very last minute and the strength and support we have within this travelling party gives us the best possible chance to deliver our message, strongly and passionately for one final time.”

Even the England cricket team found time to back the bid, despite the small matter of the Ashes.

Speaking on behalf of the England team, Andrew Strauss, said: “England has a great history of hosting thrilling sporting events and I’ve no doubt that England would be the perfect host for a World Cup.

“There is a huge appetite for sport throughout the country and our passionate fans would make it a very special experience.

“We see the popularity of English football wherever we travel in the world and it’s always something people want to talk to us about.”

Take a look at the BTN guide to the 2018 bidders here.