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September 2,
2002 (Monday)
Eriksson wanted
Woodgate and Bowyer
Sven Goran Eriksson
has revealed that he would have taken Lee Bowyer
and Jonathan Woodgate to the World Cup if it hadn't been for the
controversy surrounding the assault case against them.
Eriksson is set to
play both from the start against Portugal on
Saturday, giving Bowyer his senior international debut and a second
cap for Woodgate. It is the first opportunity the England coach has
had to play the pair following their exclusion from England duty that
meant he could not call them up for the World Cup.
The Swede says he would have liked to have had the pair in his squad,
but was wary of the reaction their inclusion would have caused.
"We talked about them even before the World Cup and before we
announced that squad," said Sven.
"I think the reaction to their call would have caused more problems
and not benefited the England cause, but in terms of quality yes
(could have played in the World Cup), but the situation was not good.
Eriksson is impressed with the way they have handled the extra
pressure put on them, and is expecting big things from the pair.
"I saw them a lot of times and Woodgate played very well at the end
of last season," said Sven.
"He's fit again and he's a very big talent, it's the same with Lee
Bowyer, he's got a lot of energy and is very fit. he can play any
position in midfield and it will be interesting to see that."
Alan Smith's call too is a huge boost for the striker, who has worked
his socks off this season under Terry Venables and is deserving of
his call.
"He's a good player who has done very well for the Under 21's David
Platt has said he is one of the best players, so it's normal that he
steps up and I hope he will do very well for us.
"He is another player who can play up-front and he can play outside
right or as a second striker, so he is very usefull."
Eriksson also commented on Paul Robinson's inclusion in the squad,
with the absence of David Seaman and Nigel Martyn.
"I don't think we've gambled on Paul because he has some experience
in international football and has played very well for the Under
21's, so he can get his chance now."
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