Japan’s FIFA executive committee member Junji Ogura has stated that England’s disappointing World Cup 2018 result was largely down to a backlash against their media.

Ogura, who has long been considered one of England’s allies, was one of numerous members expected to vote for England. However, it seems that like many, he voted elsewhere due to the interference of the English media.

He said: “I thought England was a very strong candidate. Their presentation was one of the best presentations. But I think there was a big influence from the BBC and the Sunday Times. These reports possibly influenced people. It made damage for some people.”

England’s bid chief executive Andy Anson was furious to hear of claims that FIFA president Sepp Blatter reminded the voters of the English media just minutes before the vote was to take place.

Anson said: “I think that was unhelpful, the last thing those guys hear before they go and tick the box is the evil of the media. That is not helpful and actually inaccurate. I was told by someone who was in the room that that’s the last thing they were told by Sepp Blatter. There was a final sum-up before they voted and I think it was at the beginning of that. That’s not helpful to our cause.”