I think the Football Association have made a real dog's breakfast of the Jonathan Woodgate affair.

The Leeds defender (left) has been ruled out of international action for about two years and his World Cup hopes are in tatters due to the baffling reasoning of the FA.

I think it was quite right to exclude the player during his trial and while he carried out his community service.

But the whole thing stinks in my opinion.

He has served his time and surely the only criteria should be his club form.

If he is not playing well enough to merit selection then that is fine.

But why not just say so.

Recent reports suggest Woodgate is playing well.

A storming end to the season for the youngster might yet leave the FA with egg on their faces.

But I can also understand the PR machine believing Woodgate's inclusion would be a disaster.

As for the player himself, he might actually relish a quiet summer away from the glare of publicity.

He will still be around for the 2006 World Cup.