Jonathan Woodgate scored for Real Madrid last night. Woodgate nicked in at the back post to head home a Beckham cross and defended comfortably enough when called upon.
Most importantly, Woodgate is fit again.
Alternatively, Real Madrid have a decent centre back who can actually defend and Sven has another selection headache in defence.
Jonathan Woodgate >>
"I never wanted to think that I would have to leave the game, I always believed I would recover and play again".
"I had a bad time for a lot of months, but thanks to the help of the physios, the club, my team-mates and the supporters, I have been able to get over it."
"Now I am totally recovered, my injury is in the past and I am fine. I have also got over it mentally, I am not scared about anything happening to it and now I want to carry on playing so I can help the team. I hope to score more goals."
Woodgate went to hug Real doctor Alfonso del Corral after scoring against Rosenborg and the Madrid physio was just as pleased as his patient.
Woodgate Physio >>
"He hugged me because I was by the pitch at that moment, but it was for all of the doctors, physios and people who have been working on his recovery since the day he came here until that great moment".
"It was the moment he became a complete footballer again."
Del Corral praised Woodgate, who despite only having started playing again this season, is a very popular figure at Real Madrid.
Woodgate Praised >>
"Real Madrid have recovered a great player, but above all an exceptional person who has no limits," he added. "Woody is a tremendous player, but even better as a person. When we saw it was him who had scored we all leapt up.
"It was a moment of real joy because nobody knows just what the man has suffered to be a footballer again. He deserves all the good things that are happening to him."
England Blog Comment >> It is good to see Woodgate fit and well. England have Rio, Sol, John Terry and Carragher to choose from at centre back. Woodgate could well get in the England 2006 World Cup squad, because Carragher is versatile and can play at full back, thereby leaving room for another centre back to join the squad.
Jonathan Woodgate is a quality player if fit, hopefully he can stay uninjured.
Posted at 5:24 PM, Friday, October 21, 2005