Jo Tessem is hoping injury does not wreck his chances of making his international debut.

A bright start to the season has earned the Saints attacking midfielder a first call-up for Norway's World Cup qualifiers against Wales and the Ukraine next week.

But first he has to shake off the foot injury which is threatening to keep him out of tomorrow's home game against Middlesbrough.

He limped off at half-time during last week's win at Bradford following a kick which is still sore now although X-Rays have shown there is no break.

He said: "Thankfully it is only bruised but it is very painful. I can't run on it at the moment so it is not looking good for tomorrow.

"I hope I will be fit enough to join up with Norway. I will report anyway and with two games in four days hopefully I will be fit for the second even if I don't make the first. "It is a great honour to be picked. It is my first international call-up at any level and it means a lot to me. It is another step forward for me.

"I had spoken with the assistant manager a few times so I knew they were watching me but it was still a surprise to be included and a nice confidence boost."

Manager Glenn Hoddle was delighted for the midfielder saying: "He has been in good form and this is a nice boost for him.

"The system we play suits him and I hope he is fit enough to go. He took a nasty blow but hopefully it will settle down."

After helping Saints to three clean sheets in the last four games - and the one conceded was an own goal - centre-back Claus Lundekvam was disappointed not to be included in the squad.

He missed out on the chance to go to Euro 2000 because the final warm-up match clashed with his brother's wedding and despite his good form, he has been omitted this time round.

He said: "It is great for Jo and I am really pleased for him. With our recent clean sheets I thought I might have had a chance but the manager has got Ronny Johnsen back now.

"But I will keep going and see what happens. The main thing now is to make sure we keep another clean sheet tomorrow to keep our good run going."

Incredibly Wayne Bridge was again left out of the England Under 21 squad to face Germany and Finland despite establishing himself as a Premiership regular and showing outstanding form.

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