Ben Foster's reward for his FA Cup heroics was the worst
possible semi-final draw. But the Watford keeper is determined not
to let it slow his incredible rise to the top. Foster, on loan from
Manchester United, will not be allowed to play against his club if
they beat Middlesbrough in their quarter-final replay to set up a
semi-final with Watford.
It would rob him of another big stage but, after his England debut
against Spain last month, Foster has the perfect chance to catch
coach Steve McClarens eye at Tottenham on Saturday. With Spurs
keeper Paul Robinson expected to recover from the thigh strain
which ruled him out of Sundays 3-3 Cup draw at Chelsea, McClarens
top two goalkeepers are likely to go head-to-head, seven days
before the Euro 2008 qualifier in Israel.
Foster, 23, said: "Paul is Englands No 1 and I just have to go out
there and keep concentrating on doing what Im doing. But if the
call comes I will be ready to take it with both hands. "Playing for
England against Spain was a great experience. Ive won a cap and
seen what that sort of atmosphere and experience is like at that
level."
Foster has had two good years on loan at Vicarage Road winning
promotion, sampling the Premiership and enjoying a Cup run, but he
does not relish the prospect of sitting on the United bench when he
returns at the end of the season.
Contract talks are pencilled in for the summer because United
acknowledge Fosters progress during his two years away and the
fact that other Premiership teams are watching him.
Foster said: "If I go back to United of course I want first-team
games. Thats what any player wants but its going to be very
tough."
