Sheffield United have put their Bramall Lane stadium forward to host 2012 Olympic football matches.

The submission has been made following the withdrawal by Aston Villa of its Villa Park ground because they could not guarantee London 2012 officials that their stadium would be ready to stage games in time.

The Blades, who have recently successfully staged England U20 and U19 international fixtures, are confident their stadium is well suited to take up the mantle of hosting games for the central England region.

The club has written to London 2012 officials and informed the Football Association that they can step in.

Bramall Lane comfortably meets the International Olympic Committee criteria of having a minimum capacity of 30,000 and has impressive off-the-facilities required by the IOC and London 2012.

The city's Sheffield 2012 Lighting the Flame group have been informed of United's move to be part of the 2012 Olympics, which could also see the club's FA accredited Academy at Shirecliffe hosting an overseas team preparing for the Games.

Sheffield United Chief Executive Jason Rockett said:"We feel our stadium, support facilities and operating team are ideally placed to step in and provide a suitable alternative venue to be considered by London 2012 officials.

"We are well placed as a city and a football club to ensure that any games played at Bramall Lane would be successful, maximise the economic benefits and create the type of legacy 2012 officials are looking for."

In recent seasons United's Bramall Lane stadium has been transformed whereby it is now regarded as one of the country's leading grounds.

Just a few weeks ago the club's proposals to further improve their Bramall Lane stadium were given the green light when Sheffield City Council agreed to an increase in the size of the Kop, taking the overall capacity to 37,000.

United's redevelopment of the Kop will include removing the columns, a new concourse offering modern kiosks and toilet facilities, new executive boxes, community and educational facilities, as well as improved services for disabled supporters which will be built in the Fortina Spa Stand.

United are also looking to build a second business enterprise centre between the Kop and GAC Stand.

The Blades recently began consultations with local residents and supporters over a longer-term redevelopment which will extend the size of the club's GAC Stand with a purpose built exhibition and conference centre, as well as providing additional commercial, corporate and banqueting facilities.

A new Ticket Office and club shop will also be created under the plans which will see ground capacity extended to 44,000.