It’s a muddy old game...

Rochdale football teams are being invited to play dirty at a tournament with a muddy difference.

The 2009 Swamp Soccer New World Championships is taking place in Argyll, Scotland on 27 and 28 June.

It is estimated that 50 teams will participate in the fourth global tournament, where a smattering of celebrities is also expected.

Sponsors SealSkinz Sport will provide free pairs of waterproof, windproof and breathable socks to keep players’ feet warm and dry.

Originating from the bogs of Finland, Swamp Soccer involves mixed or same sex teams of six, with unlimited substitutes, playing 24-minute matches on an oversized five-a-side pitch with no grass but plenty of mud and water.

Organiser Stewart Miller said: “If you’re fed-up with the clean-living Premiership, then Swamp Soccer is for you. It’s two days packed full of mud, mess and mayhem and is definitely not for the faint-hearted — or those who are scared of getting dirty.”

Teams can register online at www.swampsoccer.co.uk until mid-June, with a team entry costing £115.

Players can camp on site at £23 a night per tent or opt for self-catering accommodation available at Hunters Quay Holiday Village, Dunoon.