Wellington Phoenix are due a cool AUS$350,000 from FIFA for contributing so many players to New Zealand's World Cup squad.
For the first time, FIFA will pay those clubs whose players are called up for World Cup duty - $US1600 ($1780) per player per day for a maximum of 30 days. To qualify, a club must have owned the player's registration in the past two years, with a pro-rata system in operation if the player has moved on within that time.
Nix chief Tony Pignata believes it's due recognition for the club's contribution to the All Whites' qualifying campaign.
''Over the last three years, we've really supported the [NZ] national team, giving players time off whenever they've needed it, so we're appreciative that those sacrifices have been recognised,'' he said.