Football: Hoddle recalls Merson after Lee is forced out
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Paul Merson has earned a recall to the England football squad in place of the injured Robert Lee after Glenn Hoddle watched another possible replacement, Matthew Le Tissier, in action on Saturday. Mark Burton reports.
Paul Merson has been called up for England's decisive World Cup Group Two qualifying match against Italy in Rome on Saturday. The Middlesbrough midfielder replaces the injured Newcatle player Robert Lee. The former Highbury favourite won the last of his 15 caps as a substitute in the 1-0 Wembley defeat by Italy last February, when he replaced Steve McManaman after 75 minutes.
He had been widely tipped to start that game - but instead Glenn Hoddle picked Matthew Le Tissier. The England coach watched the Southampton playmaker step up his comeback in the 3-0 win over West Ham on Saturday, but he has decided he is not yet ready for a recall and instead has plucked Merson out of the First Division.
The Boro manager, Bryan Robson, is delighted for the player who has struggled to settle in the North-east after being lined up as Juninho's replacement. "He's had his problems and we're doing all we can to help him," Robson said. "He's been doing himself justice on the field and getting called up for England is great for him. I'm really pleased for him."
Italy could be without the key defender Ciro Ferrara after he limped off during Juventus's match against Fiorentina yesterday with an injured right leg. He will have a scan today. Italy are already without Roberto Di Matteo - the Chelsea midfielder is suspended.
Middlesbrough lose at home to Sheffield United, page 6
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments