Source: Telegraph
World Cup 2010: Tottenham run has helped Cameroon cause, says Sebastien Bassong
Bassong's omission from Cameroon's squad raised eyebrows after a big-money move from Newcastle in the summer and a solid start to his Tottenham career. [LNB]However, there was a theory behind the selection, as Paul Le Guen explained to his centre-back. Keeping him at White Hart Lane meant a run of games for Harry Redknapp's side rather than warming the bench in Angola. [LNB] Related ArticlesCameroon call up BassongGeremi: Cameroon have fighting spiritWorld Cup 2010 draw: Group E reactionGullit: Africa to claim centre stageSilva relishing Brazil's 'group of death'Milla throws weight behind African hopesBassong wants to use his regular football at Spurs as a reason for Le Guen to take him to the World Cup this summer. [LNB]"Of course, it hurt that I didn't go to the African Nations Cup," Bassong admitted. [LNB]"I was talking with Harry (Redknapp) and Paul Le Guen, and he took his decision. He had his own reasons that he explained to me. [LNB]"If I went to the African Nations Cup I wouldn't be playing so he thought it was better for me to stay at Tottenham to compete for my place here and help them stay in the top four. [LNB]"I don't know if Harry spoke to him but it was a good thing, maybe the best thing for the club but not for Cameroon." [LNB]Spurs certainly needed cover in defence as Jonathan Woodgate was out with a long-term groin problem and Ledley King's knee problems meant he could not play matches in quick succession. [LNB]The result was helping Spurs maintain their push for a Champions League place, as well as reaching the FA Cup semi-final where they were defeated by Portsmouth. [LNB]Select your 23 for England's World Cup 2010 campaign and share it with your friends. [LNB]
