International break takes toll on Premier League players
Published:The International break so early into the season always causes Premier League managers to moan and groan, but some could face losing star players for a number of weeks after Fridays fixtures.
Michael Dawson went over awkwardly on his right knee in England’s clash with Bulgaria and Tottenham Hostpur manager Harry Redknapp will be anxiously awaiting the results of a knee scan, in an injury that could rule Dawson out for up to six weeks.
It could be a huge blow to Spurs as they look to challenge for a top four spot, for which they are 7/2 to do so.
With Arsenal and a Champions League tie against Werder Breman coming up, Redknapp will be hoping that the scans reveal nothing to serious.
James Collins faces a lay-off after an elbow to his face in Wales game with Montengro left him with a possible fractured jaw.
Collins injury will come as unwanted news to Aston Villa as they search for a new manager.
Reports from France suggest Gerard Houllier is all set to take over the manager’s chair at Villa Park and is 11/8 to do so.
If Houllier is to take up the position, the loss of Collins will affect his preparation as he looks the guide the club towards a European spot.
Everton have also felt the effects of the international break as Louis Saha managed just 10 minutes after he came on as a second half substitute in France’s 1-0 defeat to Belarus.
Despite using leeches to cure his knee woes, Saha left the field with a calf strain as the latest in a string of injuries that will worry Toffees boss David Moyes.
Everton have started the season well with just the one point from three games and Moyes will need all his resources as he steers Everton away from the relegation zone.
A poor start leaves Everton in the relegation zone and they are 33/1 to go down. See the full Barclays Premier League football betting market here.
