Sheffield United and Everton have both reacted angrily to being snubbed at the 2018 host cities decision despite their representative cities winning a place on the FA’s list.

Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane was involved in a direct battle with Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough ground to be chosen as the ground to represent the city in England’s bid. However, it was thought that United were gaining the momentum going into the decision due to the development and modernisation plans for the ground. Nevertheless, the selectors went with tradition and chose Hillsborough that previously hosted games during the 1966 tournament.

Kevin McCabe, Sheffield United chairman, said: ”It seems strange that we have arguably the best ground in Yorkshire and yet failed to be selected. A ground which has plans for redevelopment submitted without recourse to grants. I’ve communicated my congratulations to Wednesday and the city because, in that sense, it is a wonderful thing to be on the list. But it disturbs me as to why we didn’t get it. I suppose there is a frustration because of the work, time and effort that has been lost. We have improved to such an extent that we have held international games at under-20 and under-21 level and even been congratulated by Jack Warner.”

Meanwhile, Everton chief executive Robert Elstone has slammed Liverpool city council for rejecting their proposal to build a new stadium in Kirkby. The decision inevitably cost Everton a place amongst the 17 stadiums on the list.

He said: “What is truly disappointing is that we at Everton have been ruled out of contention despite constantly re-iterating our belief that we will have a new stadium built, open and fully-functioning many years before a World Cup in either 2018 or 2022. However, it is not without irony that the City played a major role in defeating Kirkby. Indeed, in the City’s official bid document, the proposed Kirkby stadium was described by the City Council leader Warren Bradley as ‘outstanding’. Other clubs that will face similar funding and planning challenges just like Everton have been included – so why not Everton?”