England's World Cup bid believes it has put the campaign back on track after a series of meetings with FIFA bosses.

New bid head Geoff Thompson's planned meeting with FIFA chief Sepp Blatter will now take place this afternoon after the Swiss was forced to delay his flight to Madrid ahead of the Champions League Final.

But Thompson did meet Spanish FA president Angel Maria Villar Llona, when he was warmly embraced by the former Spain international as he expressed his personal apologies on behalf of the bid.

Thompson also met Russia's FIFA representative Vitaly Mutko and again had a warm conversation and believes he has made it clear - and it is understood - that Lord Triesman was speaking purely for himself and not voicing the views of the bid when he offered up his infamous corruption claims.

Spanish sports minister Jaime Lissavetsky dismissed the furore, adding: "Everyone has the right to make a mistake and I know Triesman sent letters apologising."

While Thompson was heading the FA's meet and greet policy, bid chief executive Andy Anson had a very convivial, warm and light-hearted exchange with UEFA president Michel Platini, as senior officials from the European governing body spoke warmly of the fervour of English football and the spur that will give the bid.

Bid emissary David Dein also had a one-to-one with members of the FIFA high command, including Belgium's Michel D'Hooghe and although the FA team accept that what happened was "unhelpful" and has forced unwanted damage-repairing efforts, they are convinced the bid is still very much on track.