The ECB are set to have "extensive discussions" with senior players as they plot their reaction to the Champions Trophy.

The International Cricket Council has confirmed the tournament would not be moved after an ICC Board teleconference, during which the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) offered assurances over the safety of competitors.

But it is understood England, along with South Africa, Australia and New Zealand - the strongest proponents of relocating the competition - are deeply unhappy with the decision.

The possibility of an under-strength side being sent due to players dropping out remains a real one as the ECB consider their position after a spell of intense but unsuccessful lobbying on the subject.

Suggestions have also been made that one or more of the four teams opposed to the decision would opt out of the event.

Key squad members are to be consulted by the ECB - a move that echoes a similar scenario during the 2003 World Cup, when the side refused to travel to Zimbabwe for a group match - and a decision could come as soon as Friday.

A spokesman for the ECB said: "Following the decision of the ICC, the ECB will be having further extensive discussions with a number of key stakeholders - including England players and Team England - to determine our decision.

"Once those discussions are concluded, the ECB will be in a position to make a clear decision."