29 May 2005
Zat Knight: Post-Match Exclusive

Fulham defender Zat Knight spoke to TheFA.com after having made his debut for England on Saturday.


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Even for Fulham fans it was probably something of a surprise to see three of their players involved in England’s win over the United States on Saturday.

It was no shock to see Brian McBride and Carlos Bocanegra turn out for the USA, but few people expected to see Zat Knight in an England shirt - not least the defender himself!

After a spate of withdrawals, Knight was drafted in and admitted: "I was surprised I got a call-up to the squad because Fulham haven't done too well this season. A lack of centre-halves gave me the chance and I took it."

He started on the bench, but got his chance against America when Sol Campbell was injured in the early stages and had to go off at half-time with an ankle injury.

That’s when he got the call from the coaching staff to get ready. He said: "I think ten minutes into the first half they told me to go and warm up because Sol had a bit of a knock.

"At half-time he said he couldn't carry on. It was unfortunate for him but it gave me my chance.

"It was competitive for a friendly, but it was good and it is still sinking in. I am just enjoying the moment. I had a lot of messages of congratulation from friends, family and team-mates. Even Chris Coleman sent me a fax."

Now Knight is set to make his first start and full debut for England, against Colombia in New Jersey on Tuesday. But he is realistic about his longer term prospects for England.

"There are a lot of top quality centre-halves in the Premiership. All I can do is do my job at Fulham and if I get a chance with England I've got to take it. I was a bit shocked because there are a few more high profile clubs than Fulham.

"As a club we have underachieved this season, which is another reason why I was so shocked to get this call-up. But I am very excited.

"My mum Sandra is the closest one to me in the family and she is over the moon right now. This one is for her.

"I didn't want to waste her time and fly her over if I was only going to be taking part in the training sessions."

Like many players, he would have been in the States on holiday if he had not been involved on England duty.

"If I had not been picked, I would have been in Miami now. I had booked to come over on Tuesday. But this is a great opportunity for me."