By Ross Mackiewicz.
Manchester United goalkeeper Ben Foster fears he may have to quit Old Trafford in order to play regular first team football. The England goalkeeper has also conceded defeat in making Fabio Capello’s World Cup squad this summer as limited playing time this season has dimmed his hopes of making the plane to South Africa.
The season started off on a high for Foster who was United’s first choice at the beginning of the campaign as Edwin Van Der Sar’s injury opened the door for the Englishman to build up his credentials as a possible successor. However since the Dutch veteran has returned to form, Foster has only played once in the league since October and finds himself very much out in the cold with Sir Alex Ferguson as fellow United goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszack has also knocked him down the pecking order. The 27 year old believes that a move away from The Red Devils will be a step down but playing time is his motive.
“You never want to leave Manchester United.” said Foster
“If you leave this club you are only ever going to go down. But I want to be playing football. I am not interested in just hanging around and I would go if the club wanted to sell me.”
“If they are happy to accept a bid then you have to read between the lines and realise you are not really needed and move on. It would not be the end of the world for me.”
Foster’s limited chances at United this season has also convinced him that he won’t be going to the World Cup come June. He was part of the last England setup for the games against Belarus and Brazil back in November but he feels there are goalkeeper’s who are more deserving for places amongst the 23 man squad.
“I don’t think there is any chance of South Africa now,” he said.
“If he were to pick me it would be very unfair on some of the other goalkeepers.”
“I have not played a first-team game for a good few months and some of the English lads out there like Joe Hart and Robert Green have been doing fantastic.”
Do you think Foster should seek first team opportunities elsewhere? Where’s a realistic destination for him? Let us know.
