Officials from the Russian bid to host the 2018 FIFA World Cup have escalated the war of words with England.

England complained to FIFA earlier this week, claiming Russia’s bid leader Alexey Sorokin had made derogatory remarks about the rival bid.

Pictured: David Beckham and Wayne Rooney have both endorsed the England 2018 bid

This decision has now been branded “absolutely primitive” by Viacheslav Koloskov, a former FIFA and UEFA executive committee member.

“There will not even be an investigation. The English are afraid of how badly their bid is going,” added Mr Koloskov, honorary Russian FA president.

There are now concerns in some quarters England – having previously held a dignified silence – may have damaged their bid by entering into an unedifying war of words with Russia.

Executive Committee

FIFA’s executive committee will meet on Thursday to assess reports on the 2018 bids.

A possible postponement in the vote for the 2022 World Cup until after December 2nd - when the 2018 winner is announced – will also be on the agenda after recent allegations of corruption.

The FIFA ethics panel is currently investigating two voters, four former executive members and two bidders for alleged corruption in the 2018 and 2022 contests.

Nigerian Amos Adamu and Tahiti’s Reynald Temarii are both under investigation for allegedly offering to sell their votes.

The spat between England and Russia – considered the joint favourites for the 2018 competition - is also now likely to be considered.

FIFA World Cup

Russia, England and joint bids from Belgium/Holland and Spain/Portugal are in the running to host the 2018 World Cup.

Qatar, Australia, the United States, Japan and South Korea are contesting the 2022 vote.