Jlloyd Samuel Is Appealing

Samuel is appealing against the FIFA ruling after being told he can’t represent Trinidad and Tobago at the world cup.

He said, on his own Icon website: ‘The World Cup draw opens up the possibility of a real dream coming true. I’m still appealing to be allowed to play for Trinidad and Tobago and the prospect of facing England is fantastic. I’ve mentioned before that although I was born in Trinidad because I played for England Under-21s there is a problem with qualification. The appeal is still going through and I’m keeping my fingers crossed. I do feel Trinidadian and the chance to appear for them on the biggest stage and play against England is mouth-watering. But I don’t want to think too much about it until I know whether it is going to happen.’

If he is allowed to represent T&T he will face England on June 15th 2006.

He also says he is working hard to force his way back into the first team at Villa and that O’Leary has ‘made it clear that he does see me as an important member of the squad and he wants to foster competition for places which is good for the team.’ Adding: ‘I’m happy to knuckle down, work hard and stick with it but obviously I need to be playing regular football. I want that to be at Villa but ultimately if it doesn’t happen here then I would have to assess my situation.’

With Charlton apparently keeping tabs on the left back, he does appear to have options. I hope we keep hold of him, with the right coaching and a good run, he could easily get back to the sort of good form we saw a couple of seasons ago.