The book of excuses: No. 1786

[The Red Baron]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/21833182

"I'm disappointed Rio will not be available, but due to the detailed medical programme he must follow it's not possible," said Hodgson.

I must remember that one next time I'm invited to something I really don't want to attend. 

[CusworthRovers]

.........it's shocking really and all too familiar. I remember the Rooney absentee fiasco last time:

Hodgson said 'unfortunately the game kicks off relatively close to Hollyoaks, but due to the detailed psychological report he must follow, it's not possible'

[BobG]

I saw the news on teletext earlier this evening. It made me laugh out loud. Credibility? It's pretty minimal all round isn't it? Pure and simple, football these days is a laughing stock.

BobG

[The Red Baron]

I see that Cahill has withdrawn and Steven Taylor has been called up. How many more centre-backs need to go down before Rob Jones gets a call from Hodgson?

[RedJ]

I see that Cahill has withdrawn and Steven Taylor has been called up. How many more centre-backs need to go down before Rob Jones gets a call from Hodgson?

Rob Jones doesn't get called up to the England squad. Rob Jones calls the manager himself. #RobJonesFacts

[Donnybax]

Ferdinand is flying out to Qatar to be a pundit on the game. That is shocking

[BobG]

Looks to me like there's a degree of 'sod you' involved all round tbh. Typical of the FA for years.

BobG