Elland Road improvements unable to hit accelerator after Russia's triumph

Leeds were keeping their fingers crossed a successful bid would allow the club to push forward with plans for a major development of the ground, raising capacity to around 50,000.

Yesterday, Harvey said the club remained ambitious and was still keen to press ahead but without the momentum of the World Cup it was likely to take longer.

He said: "What we were hoping for was that the World Cup would accelerate those plans.

"It's going to be harder but that does not mean it will be impossible."

Former Leeds United players Peter Lorimer, Eddie Gray and Norman Hunter joined current manager Simon Grayson and other invited guests, including Coun Adam Ogilvie, Leeds City Council's executive member for leisure, at Elland Road to hear the result.

Grayson said: "Obviously it's a big anti-climax for everybody."

Leeds had been included in the England proposal after submitting a successful bid for Elland Road and other facilities in the city region to be considered by FIFA as venues for the tournament.

The Leeds City Region Partnership brings together the 11 local authorities of Barnsley, Bradford, Calderdale, Craven, Harrogate, Kirklees, Leeds, Selby, Wakefield, York and North Yorkshire County Council.

Coun Ogilvie said he was disappointed Leeds had missed out.

"It would have been a fantastic opportunity for Leeds to stage World Cup matches.

"It would have ensured global coverage for the whole city region and provided a huge economic boost.

"We have the facilities, fans and support to be a host city and I truly believe it is the world's loss that Leeds and this part of Yorkshire will not be involved," he added.