Republic of Ireland fullback Stephen Carr could yet make the squad for the World Cup finals after Tottenham assistant manager John Gorman revealed that he has only suffered a minor setback in his return from injury. Reports last week claimed that the player, who has not played for his club at all so far this season, had broken down on his return to training and his chances of making the World Cup were extremely slim.
However, Gorman has now admitted that the 25-year-old's setback is not as serious as first feared and he could yet return for the North London club before the end of the season. "It is not a major setback. It is just that because of the type of injury he suffered, everything has to be done carefully and done right. He has not been ruled out because he is a fit lad and there is every chance of an improvement in his condition," explained Gorman.
Irish manager Mick McCarthy is eager allow Carr every chance of recovering in time to make his squad for the trip to Japan and Korea. "Steve is a world-class defender and I am prepared to wait as long as possible to give him a chance of recovering in time for the finals," he said.
There was further good news for McCarthy from White Hart Lane after centre-back/striker Gary Doherty came through 45 minutes of a reserve match against Charlton. Doherty has been sidelined since September 13 when he broke his leg but is expected to make his return to first-team action over the next few weeks.
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
