The All Whites have suffered a major blow with captain Winston Reid ruled out of the World Cup playoff against Mexico next week.

There's a lot riding on these World Cup finals qualifiers, beginning with the high-altitude clash in Mexico in seven days time, writes Chris Rattue.

The All Whites squad to face the might of Mexico next week includes two rookies barely out of their teens.

The Phoenix's All Whites are set to play on Saturday for their club before assembling with the rest of the squad.

Attacking trio Shane Smeltz, Chris Wood and Marco Rojas have returned to the All Whites squad to face Mexico later this month.

The All Whites team for the World Cup playoff with Mexico will be named this morning - but getting many of the squad to North America remains a challenge.

Two months into his Spanish adventure, Gareth Bale understands one thing loud and clear.

Young Kiwi player Ryan Thomas has made a stunning professional debut for high-flying Dutch first division side PEC Zwolle.