Woodgate Has Played His Last Game Of The Season

By Matthew Jones
April 27 2004

Jonathan Woodgate will miss the rest of the season, and could well be ruled out of Euro 2004 after tearing a thigh muscle in Newcastle United's weekend win over Chelsea at St James' Park.

The Newcastle United and England defender will be out of action for at least six weeks, which rules him out of the rest of the season, and possibly part of Portugal 2004, but nothing is confirmed regarding that just yet!

Speaking to BBC Radio, Robson said:

"I am not saying he is out for that. That's in June and we are still in April."

If all goes well, Woodgate could be available by June 8.  This will mean that he would be available for England's first game vs France on June 13, although the squad does have to be announced before then.  Sven has until May 17 to name his squad although the final squad doesn't have to be confirmed until June 3.

With Middlesbrough's Gareth Southgate also looking likely to miss the competition, Sven said:

"If he's not available for Portugal then it would be a big blow for us. He's been playing very well recently. I still hope that he can be available but I'm not sure any more."