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September
3, 2002 (Tuesday)
Relief for England
pair
Lee Bowyer and Jonathan Woodgate have
revealed their relief at
earning an England call-up and have promised not to let anyone down.
Both released statements following Eriksson's decision to select them
for the first time following the court case for assault against the
pair, during which Bowyer was cleared, and subsequent mandate
preventing them from being picked for England until after the World
Cup.
Bowyer will get his first cap against Portugal and is delighted to
finally realise his ambition of playing for his country.
"I was aware a lot of people were tipping me to get picked this
time," said Bowyer.
"But I had no expectations because I have set myself up only to be
disappointed in the past when I thought I might get in.
"So I'm just so glad to finally be given a chance to prove that I can
play at this level - that is all I have ever wanted and it's a great
feeling to be called up.
"I think I can rise to the challenge, but I won't really know until
I've played."
Jonathan Woodgate's international career has been held back by his
off-field problems and now he is looking to make up for lost time be
establishing a place in the England teams of tomorrow for himself.
"I am naturally delighted to be back in the England squad and even to
be considered in the same class as the great players who went to this
year's World Cup," said the 22-year-old.
"The strength of the squad is better than ever and I am under no
illusions that I will have to play really well to be considered for a
place in the team.
"I would like to publicly thank the people who have demonstrated
their faith in me and supported me through a difficult period, and I
hope I can reward their faith."
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