Rivals unite for World Cup bid

Rafa Benitez believes Liverpool has a passion for football

Rival football teams have united to launch Liverpool's bid to play host to the World Cup.

Players from Liverpool FC and Everton FC have come together in an effort to be part of England's 2018 World Cup plans.

The city council has submitted an outline bid based on both teams having two new stadia by 2018.

Liverpool is one of 15 cities competing to be chosen, with Manchester also bidding to take part.

Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez said: "Everybody knows the passion people in Liverpool have for football.

"Their knowledge and appreciation of the game is known throughout the world and matches being staged in Liverpool would be a huge boost for a World Cup played in England."

'Magnificent event'

David Moyes, Everton's manager, said: "I would urge everyone in the city - be they Blue or Red - to get right behind this bid.

"We can't afford to miss out on what could be a magnificent event."

Final applications have to be submitted to England's World Cup bid company by November 2009, with the host cities being announced in December.

FIFA will announce the hosts of the 2018 and 2022 World Cup in December 2010.

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