Source: SKY_Sports
Europe gives Foster the edge
Manchester United goalkeeping coach Eric Steele believes Ben Foster is capable of becoming England's No. 1.
The Red Devils shot-stopper was included in Fabio Capello's plans for recent fixtures against Slovenia and Croatia, but was forced to play back-up to West Ham's Robert Green.
A slight knock picked up in United's Community Shield triumph over Chelsea kept Foster out of an August friendly against Holland, handing Green his opportunity.
He now faces a battle to oust the Hammers ace, while he is by no means guaranteed to be first-choice at Old Trafford this season once Edwin van der Sar returns to full fitness following finger surgery.
"It will be a disappointment to Ben because he has started the season at United and taken his opportunity and it was exactly what he wanted," Steele told the Manchester Evening News.
"In terms of his form he will have been delighted to have got the start he has made with four games under his belt.
"But he will have been disappointed to pick up the injury in the Community Shield that meant he missed that international and Robert Green has got in.
Dilemma"If Ben hadn't had the injury he could have really thrown the gauntlet down to Fabio Capello and said 'play me.' Being in United's goal would have given him a good chance not just in friendlies but the big game against Croatia. It would have given Capello a dilemma.
"Ben has done well for the club and is in form but he has had to take a step back with England."
Steele is, however, of the opinion that playing in the UEFA Champions League with United this term will give Foster the edge over his England rivals - Green, David James, Chris Kirkland and Joe Hart, who will all be absent from European competition.
"David James is going to struggle now. He has a shoulder injury and knee problem," he added.
"Robert Green is a fit young man and playing regularly. But it is there for keepers to have a go at.
"Robert will have regular football at West Ham. Ben is not guaranteed that. Probably Green has the advantage with that but he doesn't have the competitive element we have here.
"The European stage is the big advantage Ben has. Ben's preparation for England will be fulfilled more with what we have coming up on our fixture list than others."
