Gabbidon doubtful for Saddlers clash and a worry for Wales

Last updated : 29 August 2003 By Michael Morris
Lennie Lawrence has rated Daniel Gabbidon as doubtful for Cardiff City's trip to Walsall tomorrow. Gabbidon picked up a foot injury last Saturday and missed the home win over Derby. James Collins stood in and did a fine job and could start the game against Walsall.

Mark Hughes will be concerned though as Wales play italy and Finland in crucial Euro 2004 qualifiers within the next 12 days.

Lennie told the Western Mail

"If Danny's not fit by Wednesday, I don't want him on that plane travelling to Italy."

"A lot of people would say if he can't play against Walsall, then he's not going to Milan. I don't take that view. I want to do everything I can to help Wales and be fair to Danny.

"So our stance is, 'He's not fit at the moment, but he's improving every day and could be OK by the time Wales go.'

"But, as I said, if he is still unfit by the middle of next week, I would expect him to be sent back to our club.

"After Danny has reported for international duty this weekend, I will have to trust the Welsh medical people."

"At the start of the week he couldn't even run.

"He's running again and showing signs of improvement, but it's still touch and go.

"To play against Walsall he would have to take part in training on Friday and that's unlikely.

"As for Wales, put it this way - if they were playing on Monday or Tuesday I would be concerned."

As I mentioned above James Collins came in for Gabbidon last Monday and will relish the chance of another 1st division start. The bigger worry would be for Wales who face Italy in the San Siro next Saturday and Sparky's team could be without both 1st choice central defenders.