New Zealand have officially submitted their bid for hosting the U20 world cup in their country. New Zealand Football chief executive Michael Glading confirmed yesterday that an official, Government-backed declaration of interest had been submitted to Fifa headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland.

Glading, who will front the bid, says the pitch is for a "nationwide event" involving six host cities.

Soccer Venues redeveloped for next year's Rugby World Cup could also see a slice of the action, including Eden Park and Dunedin's Forsyth Barr Stadium, with the intention of accommodating bigger crowds than traditional football venues, such as North Harbour Stadium, can offer showcase games.

England's Peter Crouch has been a keen backer of the NZ bid.