All Whites skipper Winston Reid believes New Zealand can make it to the 2018 World Cup in Russia, but says it's a goal they need to start working towards now.
The defender scored the winner against Manchester United two days ago in West Ham's last ever game at the Boleyn Ground – but he will not be playing in the OFC Nations Cup after being granted a rest following an injury-plagued campaign.
However he hopes to be back for the All Whites for World Cup qualifiers, but appreciates reaching the finals in Russia two years from now will be a tough ask.
"Obviously for us it's a big thing. We want to go back to another World Cup," he said.
"It takes a lot of hard work and you have to make sure you get yourself organised and prepare yourself well. It's the small details that make the difference."
Reid says while he hasn't been able to captain the national side that often in recent times, he insists there's "nothing he'd rather do".
"You know, every time you play for the national team it means a lot so it's definitely something I look forward to doing," he said.
However, for now his compatriots will do their best to win the OFC Nations Cup without his help – something Reid believes they will be able to do.
"I think it'll be a good competition. We've got a strong squad -- strong enough to win the tournament and get the job done," he said.
"I'm looking forward to watching it and following it."
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