World Cup-bound defender Tommy Smith says he is proud to represent New Zealand despite having been born in England. Smith has been named in the All Whites 23 for South Africa having made his debut in the recent friendly against Mexico in the US.

Smith, who lived in New Zealand between the ages of eight and 16, said: "I'm so proud to represent New Zealand and, as I have said before, my football education was in this country and I feel a loyalty that I could never feel to England.

"My first match for the All Whites was a bit difficult, not knowing anyone, but the games coming up will help sort that out.

"I didn't expect to be in the World Cup squad before the Mexico game but I felt quite confident during the match and got on quite well with them all.

"When I heard I'd been selected it felt absolutely amazing - it is every lad's dream to play in the World Cup.

"My team-mates at Ipswich were a bit jealous obviously, but they have wished me all the best. I am determined to do New Zealand, myself and Ipswich proud."

Smith, who previously represented England at U17 level, is enjoying being back in the country where he grew up: "It's been four years since I was in New Zealand - I've been for a drive to see our old house in Papamoa which brought back lovely memories. I've got a lot of memories of New Zealand and they are all good.

"These have been a very enjoyable few days and I hope to catch up with some friends in Auckland if they haven't moved on. Then it's all about hard work preparing for the World Cup."

Smith is set to hold a question and answer session with pupils at his old school, Westlake Boys High in Auckland, prior to next Monday's first pre-World Cup friendly against Australia at the MCG.

Photo: Action Images

Pique added 23:12 - May 17 Best of luck, Tommy. Every Ipswich fan will be making New Zealand their second team - make us proud.
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bennyblue added 00:22 - May 18 hey some of us might be making NZ our 1st team
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dobbie73 added 08:39 - May 18 Good luck Tommy!! I second Pique - Ipswich fans will hopefully keep a little place spare for NZ at the tournament. Except for bennyblue who seems to struggle to work out who he supports, lol.
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