Hillsborough’s chances of hosting World Cup matches were given a major boost recently as Sheffield was chosen as one of the host cities for England’s 2018 World Cup bid.

The ground, that staged World Cup games 43 years ago, was picked over Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane stadium as the ground to represent Sheffield in the bid. No reason was given for the controversial decision but there is speculation that the neighbouring Hillsborough Park to help contain media, fans and VIPs gave them the edge.

As a result, Sheffield Wednesday will have to expand their stadium from just under 40,000 to around 44,500 capacity.

Doug Liversidge, chairman of the Sheffield 2018 bid, said: “Hillsborough has a proud record in the World Cup, I went there in 1966. I think both stadia had a fine chance and I have no idea why they chose one over the other. But I’m not bothered. It went to Sheffield. It will be great for the business community. It is going to bring a lot of business and it will be great for our identity as a city of sport. The Sports Personality of the Year Awards were brilliant, the best ever, and this will continue the growth of our city. Sheffield is coming up leaps and bounds.”

Lee Strafford, Sheffield Wednesday chairman, added: “Our city has a massive amount to offer the world of football and we know that the whole of our community will work together and do everything possible to make Sheffield a fantastic destination for football.”