Club News

Foster backs England to qualify

And stopper focused on domestic comeback

BEN Foster expects his England team-mates to secure qualification for Brazil 2014 with Wembley victories over Montenegro tonight and Poland on Tuesday (both ko 8pm).

Roy Hodgson’s side currently top Group H with 16 points from eight games – but their final two opponents are hot on their heels with 15 and 13 points respectively - while second-placed Ukraine are also only a point adrift of the Three Lions.

And Foster, who is continuing his rehabilitation from a foot injury, takes confidence from the fact England’s destiny remains in their own hands.  

“There are a couple of massive games coming up for the lads,” said Foster.

“Qualification is in our hands and that’s all we can ask for.

“I'd love to be at Wembley but because I’m still on crutches it’s too difficult to get about.

“So I’ll be watching from home.

“And I, like the rest of the country, will be fully expecting us to qualify.”

But the Baggies stopper, who has six England caps, knows he must return to Steve Clarke’s starting line-up before he can begin dreaming of Brazil 2014.     

“I have to get back playing and in the Albion team before I can start to think too much about England,” he added.

“I’m looking forward to getting back to full fitness first and foremost."

*Saido Berahino was an unused substitute for England Under-21s in last night's 4-0 European Championship qualifier in San Marino.