Wales, Ireland and Scotland have reportedly expressed an interest in submitting a joint bid to host the 2020 UEFA European Championship in a three-way arrangement.

UEFA has confirmed "some national associations" had declared an interest in the bidding process ahead of a 15 May deadline imposed by the organisation's Executive Committee.

A formal process will now be launched by UEFA in which all 53 member associations will be able to submit their candidature, regardless of whether they had expressed an interest.

Speaking to the BBC, Football Association of Wales chief executive Jonathan Ford said no firm decision had been taken on a bid, but revealed a declaration of interest had been made.

Ford told the broadcaster: "[It] will allow us to obtain the information from UEFA so that we can fully assess and determine, independently and together, whether we should submit a bid."

Irish minister of state for tourism and sport Michael Ring welcomed the news that interest had been expressed in hosting the 2020 UEFA European Championship.

Ring said: "It would be a tremendous boost to Ireland if we were able to host the tournament alongside Scotland and Wales. A joint bid would be a very exciting development."

UEFA said the bidding process will last around 18 months.

Details: www.uefa.com