Soccer: FA gives Bowyer England go-ahead

Lee Bowyer has been given the go-ahead by the FA to start his England career in time to force his way into the World Cup squad.

The FA imposed an international ban on Bowyer and Jonathan Woodgate after they were charged with grievous bodily harm and affray in March last year.

However, the FA have decided, in the wake of Bowyer being cleared of both charges, that he would now be made available for selection for England's next friendly away to Holland in February.

A decision has been delayed, however, in the case of Woodgate, who was cleared of GBH but found guilty of affray and ordered to carry out 100 hours' community service.

Fitness permitting, Bowyer will almost certainly be called up for England's friendly in Amsterdam and is a strong contender for inclusion in the final 23-man World Cup squad.

FA head of communications Paul Newman revealed in a statement: "It has been a difficult case for all concerned and of course our strongest sympathies are with the victim and his family.

"When the players were charged, the Football Association - in consultation with all parties - decided in everyone's interests that they should not be considered for representative honours with England until the legal process had been completed.

"We felt that the players should be allowed to concentrate on such serious issues away from the additional pressures that surround international football.

"Following today's verdicts, the FA have decided that Lee Bowyer will be considered for selection with England.

"The FA are still studying the details of Jonathan Woodgate's case and will be talking to both Leeds United and the player in the next few days."