Newcastle attempt to block Carroll's debut
Quite why they've waited until today to act when the squad was named on Saturday and Fabio Capello's intention to hand Andy Carroll a start was confirmed yesterday is unclear, but it is thought that Newcastle have asked the FA to withdraw Andy Carroll from tonight's friendly against France.
The Magpies have been stung by players getting injured on England duty before, the most notable incident coming when Michael Owen damaged his cruciate ligaments after rushing back from injury to play at the 2006 World Cup and didn't return until April 2007.
They successfully claimed for compensation from the FA after a lengthy process then but the incident, which occurred during Freddy Shepherd's tenure as chairman, evidently still causes concern.
Carroll is believed to have come through training without a problem on Tuesday though, and if he is pulled out because of the request, there is obviously a possibility that he will resent his club's stance for denying him the opportunity to make his first international appearance before the end of the year.
If Newcastle succeed, it will be a huge blow to England's chances of defeating France, leaving them with Peter Crouch, Jay Bothroyd and Carlton Cole as their only options, unless Theo Walcott is used in a central role. Joe Hart has also withdrawn with a back injury, meaning Ben Foster is likely to start.
England are [2.3] to triumph, while Les Bleus are [3.75] to make it four wins in a row...
Published: 17 Nov 2010
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