Liverpool to get windfall worth hundreds of millions

The city of Liverpool claims it would receive a £200 million (US$330 million) boost if it is a host city for the 2018 World Cup, should England win the rights to host the tournament.

The city is arguably the biggest heartland of English soccer, with both Liverpool and Everton having secured multiple trophies over the years. Though neither side has won the Premier League since its inception in 1993, Liverpool have been English league champions 18 times, and Everton nine.

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However, the city's chances of selection as a host city could be affected by the continuing doubt over both clubs' stadiums. Liverpool are keen to leave Anfield for a new stadium in Stanley Park, while Everton have their own plans for a move. But with the current situation unclear, the city could miss out to other cities where developments are more concrete.

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The city's bid is based on both clubs having new stadiums by 2018, but Anfield is being used as a fallback option. However, another nine years of use would see the famous stadium slip further behind the league's new grounds in many of the areas Fifa focus on when considering bids.

The English bid team will decide in three weeks which cities will be included as part of the country's bid. 

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