To see Qantas's unveiling as a World Cup bid partner...

 

Last year, Sydney Rovers were admitted into the competition on the basis of investors coming on board over time. It was an exceptional show of faith in Ian Rowden's team by the FFA.

Rovers will be accepted into the A-League in 2011 for the start of season seven.

While Buckley heaped praise on Melbourne Heart - due to kick off in the competition this upcoming season - he said Rovers weren't far behind...but conceded investment was still the issue.   

"I think Melbourne Heart remarkably good job in a short period of time," said Buckley.

"They've signed major sponsors, an outstanding coach and have a very high calibre administration and we're confident they'll be successful from the outset.

"West Sydney is still being worked through but we've had meetings in recent weeks with Ian Rowden and his team and they're very diligent .

"I think they've [Rovers] have done a fantastic job in engaging with the community. Obviously they've got to raise the capital, that's critical.

"We always said it would be critical but they've still got time to bring that to fruition."

Rovers will report back to FFA in the next few weeks and the governing body will assess things from there.

Raising capital is a hot issue with North Queensland Fury battling to reach their target of $2.5m from local investors.

Buckley reiterated FFA Chairman Frank Lowy's words about FFA helping out the embattled franchise but added:

"There has be a financially responsible business plan in place," he said. "But we're very hopeful and want North Queensland to stay in the competition.

"It's a team that when you reflect on it has achieved remarkable things in 12 months. We're not dissuaded from our expansion plans."

To see Qantas's unveiling as a World Cup bid partner...