Fulham defender Alain Goma is being tipped to win back his place in the
France squad for this summer's World Cup finals.
The 29-year-old, who should play against Middlesbrough at The Riverside
tonight, has won only two caps because of injuries, but faces stiff competition
from the likes of Chelsea's Marcel Desailly.
His last international appearance was four years ago, but in the past
three seasons he has spent more than six months on the sidelines because
of an Achilles injury, hip problems and disagreements with those in charge
of Newcastle before he moved to Craven Cottage.
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Fulham defender Alain Goma containing Fowler
of Leeds
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Fulham's assistant manager Christian Damiano believes Goma still has a chance
to feature in Japan and South Korea.
He said: "Alain's played for France before and now he is back to
his best. He has had some great performances for us this season and has
the quality to play for his country. He has a big reputation and he is
a very important player for us. I do not know who they will take to the
World Cup, but he must be close to getting in the national team. There
is still time for him.
"Fulham have the best defensive record in the Premier League this
season, which is a remarkable achievement, and Alain has been important
in that.
"He has played many consecutive games, which has helped, and he
is much stronger than when he first came here. Touch wood, his injury
problems are behind him."
Goma joined Fulham from Newcastle for £4million last March and was
bought to help make up for the absence of Chris Coleman, who broke his leg
in a career threatening car crash and is still some way off regaining full
fitness.
But Goma's debut was delayed by a month because of a hip injury and the
fans had to wait until August to get a clear idea of his ability. This
season, they have conceded only 23 goals from 25 games.
Damiano added: "Goma has integrated well and he works very hard. He's
a fantastically strong and accurate tackler and has a very good attitude.
He is also prepared to help younger players like Zat Knight."