West Brom: Scott Carson backed to make it into World Cup squad
Sep 15 2009 By Chris Lepkowski
ROBERTO Di Matteo believes Scott Carson is capable of playing his way back into Fabio Capello's World Cup plans.
The Albion goalkeeper, who has been capped three times by England, was recently named as the new club captain following the departure of Jonathan Greening.
Carson has responded to the challenge and has noticably become more vocal and confident since assuming the armband, even though he had a blip in Saturday's game with Plymouth when he was beaten at his near post for Argyle's goal.
Di Matteo feels that a decent campaign - not to mention the absense of an obvious England No1 - could put the Baggies man back on Capello's radar for South Africa, despite Albion's lowered status as a non-Premier League club.
"If he does well this season then at the end of this campaign, when the decisions are made, he may have a chance," said Di Matteo, whose side take on Doncaster Rovers tonight.
"He's out of the limelight but if he has a good season then he has a good season and I'm sure that will be noticed.
"Obviously he has the experience so you never know with the World Cup."
Di Matteo believes his decision to make Carson captain has been vindicated.
"It was an easy decision to make with Scott Carson," he added.
"He's a great player and has respect from other team members.
"He has a lot of experience, despite his age, and he deserves to be captain. He plays at a high level every week."
One player who will have to wait for his Albion debut is Gonzalo Jara.
The Chile international is not due in the country until tonight, at the very earliest.
If all goes to plan he could be in line to make a debut in Saturday's game at Middlesbrough.
Meanwhile, Di Matteo insisted that there would be no rush into the loan market.
He also revealed that he had fielded inquiries for some of his own players - but would not be allowing any more to leave.
"We have had some inquiries but no one is leaving," continued the Italian.
"I am quite happy with the players that we have. If we get no injuries then I can't imagine many coming in."
