By Carys Baptist
August 18 2004

Sven Goran Eriksson has announced he will not be defending Kieron Dyer at tonight’s England friendly against the Ukraine and that he will not protect him from what may or may not happen tonight at St James’ park.

Sven Goran Eriksson has announced he will not be defending Kieron Dyer at tonight’s England friendly against the Ukraine and that he will not protect him from what may or may not happen tonight at St James’ park.

Fears of a backlash from fans has been one of the main topics for the media this week but Sven has said

“He will probably play on the left. I'm not afraid of what the crowd's reaction might be and I haven't really followed this week's story”

The Newcastle United midfielder who joined Newcastle five years ago is understood to have refused to play unless he was playing in his favourite position. He was due to play on the right but only “wanted” to play on the left.

However is attitude for Newcastle hasn’t affected his chances for England and the former Ipswich player is likely to get a run out tonight despite Newcastle team mate Nicky Butt being played ahead of him.

“Kieron will have the chance to show what he can do against Ukraine,"

I don't ever remember protecting a player from the crowd and I am not about to start now. As a club manager you come across these situations from time to time. As manager of Sampdoria I signed Ruud Gullit from Milan.

He returned to Milan because people within the club weren't happy with him but that's football. Kieron has enjoyed five successful seasons with Newcastle."

Eriksson also pointed out that Kieron has had his good times at SJP and this should be remembered and taken into account.

“Kieron has played for Newcastle since 1999 and I hope the fans haven't forgotten his qualities just because of one incident."

Dyer’s agent this week commented on the situation he has found himself in claiming:

"There's no situation with Kieron, it's complete and utter rubbish.

He loves Newcastle and loves the Newcastle fans. There was no big bust-up and he's not looking for a transfer. There's never been any talk of him leaving, not from the player or the club. He had a private conversation with Sir Bobby Robson and what was said should remain private."

Newcastle United have also denied any arguments between the player and the manager.