UAE can stage World Cup football: Barnes

Dubai: John Barnes, the former England soccer star and Liverpool Football Club captain, is confident that UAE can go on to stage the World Cup.

"I had a helicopter ride over this region. If they could build so much in such a short span of time, they can also go on to stage the World Cup too," said Barnes, who arrived with the Barclays English Premier League trophy.

"I would be surprised if after five World Cups, the event does not happen here. In 20 years time, it can be staged here," added Barnes, who is perhaps best remembered for scoring the spectacular solo goal for England against Brazil at Rio's Estadion do Maracana in 1984.

"It does not matter where the World Cup is held. What is needed to stage a Cup is the guarantee of having the right facilities and infrastructure. This region has grown so much from scratch that I think they can easily stage this event too," said Barnes.

When asked what will help the UAE to emerge as a strong power in soccer, Barnes said: "Exposure is the key. The players should get to play against top teams. It is a much smaller world today and every effort should be made create opportunities for it."

According to Barnes, "the Saudis, Africans and the Koreans have progressed because of exposure to top teams and players."

Barnes, who visited Al Wasl Club after he arrived in Dubai by helicopter with the Barclays English league trophy, was impressed with the facilities.

He earlier landed at the Helidubai City Heliport near the Dubai Convention Centre.

Made by British Crown jewellers Aspreys, the trophy is three feet five inches tall and weighs 55 pounds.