Green replaces groom-to-be Stockdale
Reuters - Wednesday 25 May 2011, 00:23
LONDON - England have called goalkeeper
Robert Green into their squad for next month's Euro 2012
qualifier against Switzerland in place of David Stockdale who is
getting married the day before the match at Wembley.
"The Fulham 'keeper has a personal commitment in the build-up to England's Euro 2012 qualifier with Switzerland at Wembley
on Saturday 4 June," the FA said on its website as it announced Green was replacing Stockdale.
The 31-year-old Green, who has just suffered relegation from
the Premier League with his club West Ham United, had indicated
he would not be available due to family commitments.
However, British media reported that Green became a father
last week and after discussions with his family decided to make
himself available to face the Swiss.
He has not played for his country since an error in a World
Cup group game against the United States in South Africa last
year.
Green joins first-choice keeper Joe Hart and Scott Carson in
the squad after replacing 25-year-old Fulham reserve Stockdale.
After four matches, England lead the Group G standings with
10 points on goal difference from Montenegro, followed by
Switzerland (4), Bulgaria (4) and Wales (0).