Scott Carson call-up on cards - boss

Sep 29 2008 By Chris Lepkowski

TONY Mowbray claims Scott Carson is more than ready to resume his place in the England squad.

The in-form Albion keeper hopes to be recalled into the international fold for the first time since February in the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers.

The twice-capped ex-Liverpool man has not played for his country since making a vital mistake in last November’s European Championship qualifier against Croatia. But Carson is back to his best and Mowbray feels the young keeper has every chance of a call-up, not least as Paul Robinson is injured.

“He’s a lovely lad who’s got no edges about him,” said Mowbray.

“Considering his rise into the England side he’s a very grounded individual, very down to earth and someone who fits into our culture very well and enjoys coming into training. The talent is so obviously there but he has to string some performances together and let’s see where his future lies regarding the England situation.

“He had one bad game but the point I’d make is that to get where he did to play for England he had to be some goalkeeper.

“They didn’t pluck him out of nowhere – he did outstandingly well to get there.

“Okay, so he had one day he’d rather forget but then he gets back to what he was before that, which is why we bought him. His talent will get him back into the England set-up if that’s what his goal is.”

Mowbray claims the presence of Dean Kiely is helping Carson maintain his form. The veteran has not played since Carson’s arrival but Mowbray believes the competition is vital to their form.

“We have a top professional, who’s 37, who pushes Scott every day,” he said.