Inside Lines: Blow for England as Russia take the Roman road to 2018
Just when it seemed England had steadied the ship, the Russian government have launched a torpedo into the turbulent waters of the 2018 World Cup by inviting Roman Abramovich to throw his weight, and considerable wealth, behind their attempt to play hosts. It is an offer the Chelsea owner is unlikely to refuse, especially as prime minister Vladimir Putin will also be putting himself about on the bidding scene, as he did so visibly in helping to clinch the next Winter Olympics for Sochi.
