South Africa World Cup news: Robinson out for 'up to a month'

16/03/2010

Paul Robinson's chances of making England's South Africa World Cup squad have suffered a blow after he tore a calf muscle while facing former club Tottenham.

The Blackburn Rovers goalkeeper faced stiff competition prior to the injury, with the likes of Robert Green, Joe Hart and David James all battling over the number one jersey.

And this latest setback will do little to improve those chances, with Rovers boss Sam Allardyce revealing that Robinson will be sidelined for up to four weeks.

Despite the knock coming at a crucial time of the season, the keeper's club team-mate Christopher Samba has backed him to battle back and fight for his place at the South Africa World Cup.

Speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph, Samba said: "He still has a chance. I think he definitely deserves his place for the World Cup for England.

"Hopefully he can come back fit and show that."

Robinson has amassed 41 caps for England throughout his career, but has not been selected since 2007.

Posted by Keith Prowse