TEAM Great Britain boss Neil Middleditch has admitted he is delighted to have avoided Speedway World Cup holders Denmark in the draw.

And Middleditch, who doubles up as Poole's team manager, is also happy that the Australians aren't in the same meeting.

But he still believes a round two tie against Sweden, America and one from the Czech Republic, Italy, Slovenia or Russia will provide a stiff test at Coventry on Monday, July 16.

That's why Middleditch feels "home track advantage and the support from our fans" can play a major part in making sure Team GB can get straight through to the final at Leszno, Poland, on Saturday, July 21.

Only one team will qualify from Coventry direct to the final, with the runner-ups and third-placed sides lining up in the race-off semi-final at Leszno on Thursday, July 19.

Denmark, Australia, Poland and one from Latvia, Finland, Germany or Hungary contest round one at Vojens, Denmark, on Saturday, July 14.

Middleditch, who will be without the services of broken thigh victim Mark Loram, said: "I'm pleased we have avoided Denmark and Australia, but it will still be a tough round because the Swedes and Americans go well around Coventry as well.

"I'm quite happy with the draw and Coventry is a great track.

"We proved in the race-off at Reading last year when the crowd got firmly behind us that we can do well in our own country.

"So I'll be looking for our fans to turn up in big numbers again and shout us on.

"Sometimes I don't think they realise how much their support means to our riders and me, but I know it really lifts the boys and helps our on-track performance.

"The crowd really is worth extra points to us. That's why it is really important that as many people as possible turn up."

Middleditch added: "Scott Nicholls and Chris Harris ride for Coventry so it is their home track, and Lee Richardson goes well there as well.

"They will be able to help the other boys in the team, although it is disappointing that Mark will be out injured.

"It is terrible luck on Mark, who has broken his femur, and we all wish him well in his recovery, but it also gives the up-and-coming riders a chance to force their way into the team."

They include young Pirate Edward Kennett, who scored a paid 15-point maximum for GB Under-21s against Denmark at Oxford earlier this month in a 55-35 win.