If Fifa does not allow Sierra Leone more time, then the Leone Stars' home games in the 2010 World Cup qualifier competitions will be played in The Gambia, Observer Sports has gathered.

The world football’s governing body, Fifa, last month banned Sierra Leone’s only stadium because of poor dressing rooms and a sub-standard pitch.

Sierra Leone's Football Association (SLFA) says it can improve facilities at the country's main stadium in time for the World Cup qualifiers.

Fifa had set a deadline of April 4 for the Sierra Leone Football Association to come up with a neutral venue.

They have arranged to use the Banjul Independence Stadium for their home games against Nigeria, South Africa and Equatorial Guinea.

But the SLFA Secretary General says the government has agreed to fund the necessary work.

"Our government has assured us they will foot the responsibilities and we hope to finish fixing facilities by May 10, he said.

That is nearly a month before the first scheduled home game for the Leone Stars against Nigeria on June 1.