Bright played once in the World Cup qualifiers - against Fiji in 2008

Shrewsbury striker Kris Bright hopes his first league goal for the club will help him hit form in time for New Zealand's World Cup campaign.

Bright's winner against Lincoln came in his 26th Shrews appearance, although 23 of those were from the bench.

"It's been a long time coming," he told BBC Radio Shropshire.

"I'm just happy I've got the first one under my belt. Hopefully I can take off from here. The Kiwi manager is due to give me a call next week."

He continued: "I will be looking forward to that. I've spoken to him two or three times in the last month.

"I think I'm fighting for the final striker's spot."

I've been playing in a couple of countries now and just the style is so much different Kris Bright

Bright joined Shrewsbury on a two-year contract in August after having a trial with Norwich City.

The 23-year-old has played in his homeland, Holland, Norway and Greece.

He said: "I've been playing in a couple of countries now and just the style is so much different. The fact that I haven't been getting regular game time has been difficult."

New Zealand are expected to name their squad on 10 May. Bright's father Dave played in the 1982 World Cup for his country.

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