Make or break for Woodgate

Woodgate: Make or break

Much of Jonathan Woodgate's future rests on the coming month, says Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp.

England centre-half Woodgate was plagued by a groin injury last season, making just three appearances for Spurs.

The 30-year-old, whose contract expires at the end of the forthcoming season, will also miss Tottenham's pre-season tour of the United States to focus on his own personal fitness programme.

Woodgate's situation is further complicated by the new Premier League rule that clubs must name a 25-man squad for the season, and even if the injury-hit stopper makes a full recovery he will have to battle the likes of Michael Dawson, Ledley King, Sebastien Bassong and Younes Kaboul for a starting spot.

"It's make or break for Jonathan now," Redknapp told the Daily Telegraph.

"He has got to come back and play. If he is not ready for the start of the season it will be difficult for him. When he gets his boots on and starts playing hopefully he will be all right.

"He is a fantastic player: one of the best centre-halves around. We just take it day by day with him and see how he progresses."