With England, Australia and China all thought to be throwing their hats in the ring, the chances of Ireland being made hosts, albeit joint hosts, appear slim, but it hasn't stopped patriotic punters having a flutter on a Celtic Nations World Cup.

With Lansdowne Roads redevelopment firmly underway and scheduled for completion in 2009, and a capacity in Croke Park of 82,500, Ireland hosting the World Cup might not be such an outsider after all!

Sharon McHugh, spokesperson for Paddy Power said, "There's been more interest this morning in Ireland hosting the World Cup than who will be taking the reigns from Stan. At the moment it's just talk but if Ireland bid they'll definitely have a fighting chance. The good news for the FAI and the unknown Ireland manager is hosting the World Cup would mean automatic qualification!"

England are the current frontrunners at 11/8 to host the 2018 World Cup.

Which Country will host World Cup 2018?
11/8 England
5/2 Australia
5/1 China
8/1 Holland/Belgium
14/1 Spain
14/1 Italy
20/1 USA
33/1 Ireland & Scotland
33/1 Mexico
33/1 Russia
40/1 Nigeria
50/1 Canada

Others on request