PIRATES manager Neil Middleditch hopes BSPA chiefs will give him a happy birthday on Monday and confirm him as Team Great Britain boss for 2008.

The Poole legend, who will be 51-years-old, is set for talks with the sport's governing body on the future of the national set-up.

Following the Lions' inept performance in the World Cup Final at Leszno on July 21, Middleditch admits there is some talking to be done.

But the Sturminster Marshall-based personality believes he is still the man to lead his country to glory in this year's final at Danish track Vojens on July 19.

He said: "If there is anybody better for the job then fine, I'll step aside.

"But at this moment in time, I think they still believe I'm right for it.

"I'm quite happy to do the job - it's always an honour to be manager of your national team.

"We've got to talk over a couple of things and I'll know what's happening for certain on Monday."

Plenty of questions have been asked of the national set-up since Britain scored a paltry 15 points at last season's final in Poland.

Some fans and pundits have questioned whether the Lions had the ability and engines to compete with their international rivals.

But Middleditch has written off the Leszno low as a bad day at the office.

He added: "The likes of Scott Nicholls and Chris Harris we're outclassed on the day but they have to forget that now and look ahead.

"Lots of people have asked me how come the boys weren't ready for the World Cup Final.

"But on the day, we didn't perform and basically, got our backsides kicked.

"The boys ride in Poland and they all know the bike set-ups - it just wasn't their night."

While retaining his Team GB job would be an ideal birthday present, Middleditch would also love to gain some depth to his squad.

He has often been criticised for not using enough British riders at Poole and Pirates will start 2008 without a home-grown star in their septet.

But the former racer claims too many of the country's young guns lack the drive to chance their hand in the Elite League.

Middleditch said: "We have the likes of Scotty, Chris and Lee Richardson, who make up a good team.

"But when you get injuries, it's very difficult, as a manager, to turn things around.

"It's not that there's a lack of talent - there is plenty of talent there.

"The problem is a lack of ambition in the young riders."