Woodgate injury a blow to Newcastle and England

Sven Goran Eriksson has admitted that Jonathan Woodgate’s thigh injury is causing him worry withj the EURO 2004 finals less than two months away.

The Newcastle defender could be out for six weeks after picking up the injury in Sunday’s win over Chelsea.

Newcastle manager Sir Bobby Robson is convinced Woodgate has played his last game for the club this season and with EURO 2004 looming on the horizon, there are fears that Woodgate will not have recovered in time to represent England in the finals.

“If he’s not available for Portugal then it would be a big blow for us,” said England coach Sven Goran Eriksson.

“He’s been playing very well recently.

“I still hope that he can be available but I’m not sure any more.”

Woodgate’s impressive form has seen him emerge as a serious contender to partner Sol Campbell in the heart of the England defence.