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September 5,
2002 (Thursday)
England stars
"United" behind Bowyer and Woodgate
Lee Bowyer and
Jonathan Woodgate have been given the backing of their
fellow England and United team-mates to put the past two years behind
them and prove they are top class international players.
The pair have rarely been out of the headlines in those two years,
and their call up to the England squad has dominated the backpages
this week.
The pressure on them has been endless, and they go into Saturday's
clash with Portugal knowing that anything less than a very good
performance could leave them open to heavy criticism in the press,
particularly Bowyer who has most to prove when he wins his first cap.
Alan Smith though is confident neither Bowyer or Woodgate will let
anything get to them on the day and they'll take it in their stride.
"They went through a massive two years, heavily publicised as well,"
said Smith, "but I think they both deserve their call up because
their football has never been doubted.
"I think it was only a matter of time before they were called up, and
everyone at Leeds and all their families will be proud of them."
"They are both good footballers and hopefully they can focus on their
football on Saturday and put behind them everything that has gone on
in the past.
"They are two of the nicest lads you could meet so, fingers crossed,
they will do well on Saturday."
Paul Robinson, who was not a surprise inclusion in Sven Goran
Eriksson's squad after his performances for Leeds after taking Nigel
Martyn's place in goal, wants the world to forget about Lee and Jon's
past and concentrate on them as footballers.
"After what they've been through these past few years it should all
be brushed under the carpet now,"said Robbo.
"It's done and it's all over now, so let's just get on with it."
Danny Mills, who can now claim to be a seasoned England international
following his World Cup exploits, is backing Bowyer and Woodgate to
reproduce their Leeds form for England.
"Circumstances have kept them out for the past two years but they are
here now and deserve to be so," said Danny.
"I have no doubt they can play at this level. Jonathan made his
international debut when he was 19. He is older now and a better
player for it. They will both fit in, no problems."
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