England 1 United States 1 - Robert Green backed following blunder against US
Robert Green(credit:
Wikipedia)
England goalkeeper Robert Green received support from his manager and captain after his goal gifted the United States a point in their World Cup opener.
Skipper Steven Gerrard gave the Three Lions a start they had probably dreamt about when he collected Emile Heskey’s lay-off and slotted home.
But Green failed to keep hold of a tame shot from Clint Dempsey and it squirmed into the back of the net.
However, coach Fabio Capello refused to be hard on the West Ham man, praising him for a fine second-half save that prevented Jozy Altidore from snatching what would have been the winner.
“He made one mistake but then pulled off a great save in the second half. I was pleased for him,” the Italian said.
Gerrard echoed his manager’s comments and urged the public to get behind Green.
“We need to get behind Robert and support him,” he said.
“I’m sure he will play a big part for us further down the line and he might make an important save that wins us a match so we are all behind him.”
Green even got support from opposite number Tim Howard, who was awarded the man of the match award for his display in the United States goal.
The American added: “He has made a couple of really good saves. Unfortunately at this level, sometimes these things are going to happen.
“I feel terribly for him but when you are goalkeeping you have to have broad shoulders.”
Despite the support bookmakers are already making David James the favourite (4/9 Betfred, 10/11 Ladbrokes) to start against Algeria.
Green is 5/1 with Ladbrokes to retain his place, while Joe Hart is 4/1 with Betfred.