Dyer blow for Sinclair's Cup hopes

Last updated : 21 May 2002 By Gary Broughton
Sinclair looks likely to miss out
Dyer remember, injured his knee after a poor challenge by Southampton's Moroccan defender Tahar El Khalej ten days ago. After initially ruling him out of his World Cup plans, Sven-Goran Eriksson then gave the player time to regain and prove his fitness.

This in turn meant that Hammers midfielder Trevor Sinclair remained on stand-by while Dyer underwent intensive treatment - indeed Sinclair took part in today's warm-up match against South Korea.

However, while Dyer has not yet regained full fitness, the England medical team have decided that he is close enough to warrant a place in the 23-man squad, meaning Sinclair is likely to fly back to England tomorrow.

Though it looks like the end for Sinclair, should Dyer's situation not improve as expected before June 1st, there is a possibility he would be able to be drafted back into the squad at some point.

Paul Newman, the communications director for the FA, explained: "Trevor is committed to remaining on standby and is keen to be part of the set-up. Sven is happy with that, and Trevor will train every day at West Ham."

The manager himself also paid tribute to the player, pointing out how impressed he was by his commitment and professionalism.