Stevens Backs World Cup Bid

Former Everton right-back Gary Stevens is backing Liverpool's bid to be a host city in the 2018 World Cup.

Stevens was named alongside ex-England and Liverpool captain Phil Neal and Tranmere manager John Barnes as the first ambassadors to support Liverpool's bid to host the illustrious tournament. 

The ambassadors joined city leaders earlier this week as they made Liverpool's case to World Cup bid inspectors before taking them on a whistle-stop tour of sporting, cultural and tourism facilities.

> Liverpool Launches 2018 Bid

And Stevens, who has a total of 46 England caps and was a member of England's 1986 and 1990 World Cup squads, was more than happy to lend his support to the bid.

“I wish I was still playing, but to be an ambassador for Liverpool’s 2018 bid is the next best thing," said Stevens. "I have lived in Liverpool most of my adult life and it has been good to me, so it is great to pay that back as an ambassador. The people of Liverpool have a great passion for the game and the attitude and commitment they showed when they put their heart and soul into something is second to none.

"Having played in a couple of World Cups it's my pleasure. And anything we, the former players, can do to help bring the World Cup to Liverpool I’m sure will be appreciated by the fans and citizens of Liverpool."

Liverpool has submitted an outline bid based on Everton and Liverpool both having two new stadia by 2018.

The 25-page bid document also highlights the strength of grassroots football, Liverpool’s transport and accommodation offer and ability to host a month-long festival of football.

A final bid has to be submitted to England’s World Cup bid company by November.

In 2006 the FIFA World Cup™ in Germany generated over 2 million visitors and £600 million in economic benefits.

To show your support for Liverpool, register on-line by clicking here.