Turning to UEFA EURO 2020, which will be staged in 13 European cities, UEFA President Michel Platini pledged that "this will be a 'EURO for Europe' … 53 national associations, 24 national teams qualifying for the final round, 13 countries, and one single language: football.

"For a number of countries, this project represents a unique opportunity to host EURO matches. It is also a fantastic opportunity for national associations to finally set about acquiring a true national stadium that is worthy of the name … Finally, it will also be an opportunity for people who cannot travel to the countries that generally host such events to be able to experience those intense moments of shared emotion at home. Fans won't have to go to the EURO; the EURO will come to them."

Before then, UEFA EURO 2016 in France, Mr Platini said, also promised passion, friendship and fine football – "an event not to be missed", UEFA official website reported.