Sven Eyes Up Dyer

By Gary Spate
October 2 2003

ENGLAND manager Sven-Göran Eriksson has rearranged his plans for the weekend. He has decided to fly up to Newcastle to watch Kieron Dyer play against Southampton.

Sven changed his plans so he can have a closer look at the 24-year-old midfielder because of the doubts that skipper David Beckham may still be unfit to play.

Beckham picked up a foot injury on Sunday in Real Madrid's 2-0 defeat at the hands of Valencia and it is believed he is still in some pain.

Beckham believes he will be fit enough for the crucial Euro 2004 qualifier at Turkey next week but the manager will take no chances.

Eriksson was at Highbury to see Dyer set up both of Newcastle's goals against Arsenal.

An England source said: "Sven has always been a big fan of Kieron's, but there has always been the problem of where to play him. He is a very versatile player who can play through the middle, either in midfield or as a second striker. We've used him on the left of midfield as well, but it seems he is better suited to the right.

"He was superb against Arsenal and made left-back Ashley Cole's evening a very uncomfortable one. The manager was very impressed and if (David) Beckham doesn't make it, Kieron is in pole position to play in that role against Turkey.

"His display has impressed Sven a lot and he wants to see him play again to check on his form. As a result, he has changed his plans for the weekend and is going to watch Newcastle's match against Southampton."

Dyer has earned himself 18 caps for his country but has only started four of those games.