Blatter introduced the quota proposal last year, with the Premier League often the subject of his criticism for what he perceives to be a lack of homegrown players.

When the proposal was first introduced it was believed it would flounder on the European Union's insistence on free movement of labour around member states.

But following legal advice, Blatter is confident the system will be implemented to combat what he perceives to be the unhealthy domination of the Premier League.

He told BBC Radio 5 Live: "We do not penalise the Premier League. The Premier League will still be well organised even if they start to have more players.

"Manchester United have started to have more players. In the starting XI the other day, they had four.

"I spoke with the leadership, including Sir Alex Ferguson, and he said it is a good solution because it will automatically not only give access to young players but it will also bring back a little of the expenses.

"We are now in a economic crisis."

He added: "I have my concerns because the PL is the strongest league in the world, definitely, and taking over in such a manner that other leagues have difficulties to match the Premier League.

"There is another factor. Where is the competition when two thirds or three quarters of participants play not to be first? They play not to be relegated.

"There is something wrong there.

"That's why we had the solution of the FIFA congress.

"It was always said it is against the European law, the freedom of circulation of workers.

"I feel positive now - more positive than I have been because of this legal advice from specialists in European law."

Blatter is set to meet Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore and added: "What I want to try if not to persuade him is to influence him that a six-plus-five solution or five-plus-six will enhance the quality of his league."

Blatter also expressed concern about the proliferation of foreign owners in English football, saying: "The problem with ownership is definitely a risk. It is not the basis of football, but here we can do nothing."

He sounded a note of warning to England's 2018 World Cup bid, hinting it may be hampered by a lack of a football figurehead.

"If you look at the technical infrastructure of the stadiums and the organisation of football matches on the level of up to 50,000 people then they are ready - but they are not the only one.

"The bidders will look for some promotion - not only by material but also from personalities.

"You have Beckham!

"I cannot interfere in this matter. But you know how bidding operations have been turned into success - there was somewhere always identified with a football personality."