Euro 2012 hosts to be finalised

The problematic task of choosing the host cities for Euro 2012 will be completed on Friday when UEFA finally confirms which and how many Ukrainian cities will be involved.

European soccer's governing body confirmed the four Polish venues back in May and also said that Kiev, capital of co-hosts Ukraine, would stage matches.

But the decision regarding which other Ukrainian cities would qualify as venues was put on hold because of the slow progress.

Donetsk, Lviv and Kharkiv were given a stay of execution until November 30 to show that they would be ready.

The progress reports have now been presented to UEFA'S executive committee, which has been mulling over them at the subtropical surroundings of a luxury seaside hotel since Thursday.

UEFA will also decide whether Kiev is a suitable venue for the final.

The decision is due to be announced just after midday local time and could have a significant impact.

Ukraine, due to hold a presidential election in January, has been hit hard by the global recession and squabbling between the president, prime minister and parliament that has paralysed vital decision-making.

Euro 2012 is seen as offering the chance of investment in infrastructure including transport and hotels.