Uefa inspects Derby's Pride Park over England U21 bid

Derby County moved to Pride Park in the 1990s

Uefa officials will visit Derby as part of the Football Association's bid to host the European Under-21 Championship finals in 2013.

The delegation will look at transport links, hotels, training venues and Pride Park stadium on Wednesday.

If the bid is successful, Derby County's ground will host two of England's group matches, two additional group matches and a semi-final game.

UEFA will announce the successful host location in December.

Economy boost

Other countries bidding to host the championships are Bulgaria, the Czech Republic and Israel.

Councillor Harvey Jennings, Leader of Derby City Council, said: "This is a great opportunity for Derby to put itself on the football map at a European level.

"We had a fantastic match here a few weeks ago with the Brazil v Ukraine friendly and we have hosted full internationals and under-21 internationals in the past, all with great success."

Tom Glick, president and CEO of Derby County Football Club, added: "We always strive to bring the best entertainment to Pride Park Stadium and to host the under-21 finals would be a great feather in our cap and a great boost to Derby's visitor and sporting economy."

If England hosts the tournament, the stadiums of Nottingham Forest, Notts County, Chesterfield and Shrewsbury Town would also host matches.