AUCKLAND – Injury has once again dealt a cruel blow to Chris Killen and the All Whites’ World Cup qualifying plans, with the Celtic striker an 11th hour withdrawal from crucial home and away qualifiers against New Caledonia.
Following advice from the Glasgow club’s medical staff, Killen – who missed New Zealand’s World Cup qualifiers against Vanuatu last November with an Achilles strain – will require surgery to remove floating bone fragments from the striker’s knee.
All Whites assistant coach Brian Turner received final confirmation of the operation’s timing on Monday.
“I spoke to Chris for about 20 minutes and he’s obviously disappointed to be missing such a crucial game,” Turner said.
“Celtic’s medical staff advised it was essential to have the operation, and Chris is confident he would be available for the play-off with an Asian side for the final place at the World Cup.”
If the All Whites beat New Caledonia in Noumea on September 6 or at North Harbour Stadium four days later, they would earn a playoff against Asia’s fifth placed team for a spot at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
All Whites coach Ricki Herbert said the loss of his first choice target man was a big blow to the team and the promising partnership developing between Killen and Phoenix forward Shane Smeltz.
“Chris has been an integral part of our plans since day one. He’s great around the team and his experience is crucial, but the player’s long-term welfare has got to be the priority,” Herbert said.
“The biggest disappointment is that we miss another chance for he and Smeltz to play together. They’re both young guys and there’s potential for some longevity around that partnership.”
A replacement for Killen in the 18-man squad has yet to be named.
Story courtesy of NZF Media. For more information visit www.nzsoccer.com