THE blue and whites are sleeping giants according to a member of the Worcestershire Football Association.

FA secretary Mervyn Leggett is completely behind a new state-of-the-art soccer stadium, which he says would unlock the full potential of the team, its fan base and bring a whole range of benefits to communities across the county.

"No one involved in the national football game doubts that Worcester City are sleeping giants," said Mr Leggett.

"In terms of a potential fan base they could easily draw on bigger crowds to support higher standards of football. A new stadium would form a base to attract a whole new generation of supporters."

He confirmed that ground grading would be a definite factor in FA league requirements and creating a flagship stadium is a key area in gearing the club towards league standards.

"An enabling development to finance this project is essential to provide the finances to create a focal point for football in Worcestershire," he said.

"It would create a pivotal centre in providing new training facilities for players of all standards.

"Our rural county is currently limited in the number of areas and opportunities available to competitive players to function at a semi-professional standard."

Mr Leggett is hoping Worcester city councillors back the new ground bid.