Lee Bowyer could be prevented from playing for England in next summer’s World Cup finals, if a group of members of parliament have their way.
Several Labour MPs have written to the Football Association to tell them that if Bowyer is picked, it would send a damning message to the Asian community.
Lee Bowyer may be prevented from playing for England. After his acquittal on charges of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and affray relating to an attack on student Sarfraz Najeib, it was thought that Bowyer would be allowed to play for the national team.
But reports on Wednesday suggested that some of the more hardline members of the FA are also keen to prevent the 24-year-old from playing in Japan and South Korea.
Bowyer was placed on the transfer list by Leeds United on Tuesday after he refused to pay a fine of four weeks’ wages, around 80,000 pounds.
In addition to the fine, Bowyer was also told to take part in a community programme for the remainder of his contract with the club.
However, Bowyer said he felt he was being badly treated by the club.
"The club appears to be victimising me and forcing me out having attempted to impose an unfair penalty,” said the midfielder.
“Leeds United have placed me on the transfer list against my wishes. This follows a club disciplinary hearing to which I was not invited.”
“The club informed me that if I do not accept the punishment imposed, which is in excess of the PFA maximum, then I would not be selected for the first-team and would be placed on the transfer list.”
Bowyer said he still hoped to play for Leeds, but the club confirmed he will not be considered for selection unless he agrees to their demands.
** What do members think, should Bowyer be selected for England world cup team or not. **