New Zealand Football has answered Wellington Phoenix owner Terry Serepisos' call to 'step up' and work closely with the A-League club.

New Zealand Football CEO Michael Glading says the Phoenix is not in the position to throw a couple of hundred thousand dollars at a reserve team, so New Zealand Football will ensure they make it happen.

Glading says it is possible a Phoenix reserve team could play midweek games against NZFC clubs, but the best outcome would be if they became part of the league. He says they are committed to supporting a Phoenix reserve team as they see the club as an important part of the pathway to develop New Zealand talent.

Glading describes the Phoenix as an integral part of the pathway to develop young talent.