Hislop to start in goal again for Trinidad
By JOSH DUBOW, AP Sports Writer
June 13, 2006
ROTENBURG, Germany (AP) -- Shaka Hislop will start in goal again for Trinidad and Tobago against England after blanking Sweden in the team's World Cup opener.
Hislop was a last-minute replacement on Saturday against Sweden, when expected starter Kelvin Jack re-injured his calf during warmups. Hislop was up to the challenge, making several key saves in the surprising 0-0 draw.
With Jack still bothered by the calf injury, coach Leo Beenhakker said Hislop would remain as the No. 1 goalkeeper for Thursday's matchup against England.
"Shaka will definitely start against England and is in great form," Beenhakker said. "He is totally fit physically and you can imagine that after his performance last time against Sweden, also in his mind he is fit."
England leads Group B with three points after beating Paraguay 1-0 in the opener. Trinidad and Sweden are tied for second with one point each.
Hislop is one of six Trinidad starters based in England but the only one who currently plays in the Premier League. The West Ham goalie was born in London but moved to Trinidad at the age of 2.
He played once for England's under-21 team but made his debut for Trinidad's national team in 1998.
Trinidad will be without two defenders Thursday. Left back Avery John will serve a one-game ban after being ejected for receiving two yellow cards against Sweden and central defender Marvin Andrews is still sidelined with an injured left knee.
Brent Sancho will likely start in Andrews' place again and Beenhakker said he was considering a few options to replace John, with Atiba Charles and Evans Wise the most likely alternates.