Everton FC News: Everton pay price for Gosling’s England under-21 call-up

Nov 12 2009 by David Prentice, Liverpool Daily Post

Everton FC News: DAN GOSLING’S first England under-21 call-up has come at a price.

The 19-year-old’s selection for the European Under-21 Championship double-header against Portugal and Lithuania has come because team-mate Jack Rodwell has become the latest victim of the club’s injury curse.

Rodwell has withdrawn from the international squad with a groin strain, but Everton medical staff believe that the problem is minor.

“A scan has confirmed that Jack has a minor groin strain,” confirmed Everton head physio Mick Rathbone.

He will remain at Finch Farm for treatment while close pal and team-mate Gosling replaces him.

The fact that he is effectively in the national squad at the expense of Rodwell isn’t lost on Gosling.

“Football is funny like that,” he said. “When a chance comes along you have to grab it and on this occasion it’s come with an injury to one of my best mates.

“It's unfortunate but when you get your chance in football you have to grab it.

“Obviously, I’m delighted. I must be doing something right to be getting the recognition to be selected for this age group so I’m really happy.

“I got the call on Monday afternoon. I was surprised but you don't say no when a chance like this comes along – you jump at it.

“The players here (at the Under-21s) are a talented bunch and many of the lads are playing regularly for their club teams in the Premier League. So it’s a big step up for me but if you get selected then they obviously think you're good enough and I think I’m good enough to be here and hopefully I’ll get a chance to prove that on the pitch.”