Ben Foster takes indefinite break from England squad to benefit his Birmingham City career

Ben Foster of Birmingham City(Getty Images)

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Birmingham City goalkeeper Ben Foster has decided to take an England sabbatical in the hope it will prolong his club career.

The former Manchester United prospect has been in great form for Blues this season, despite their precarious league position.

However, the 28-year-old has decided to take a break from the international scene after injuries have hampered his participation.

“Performing at the highest level game in, game out and particularly when there’s been as many matches as there have been this season really takes it out of your body,” Foster told Birmingham’s official website.

“It’s no secret that I’ve had a few niggling injuries and that I’ve had to pull out of the past few England squads because of that.

“I’ve spoken to the management team and coaches here at Blues and told them what I want to do but it’s also very important that I say just how much I have loved playing for England and being part of the set-up.

“I’ve enjoyed my time with England and am certainly not closing a door on the international side of things forever but this is the right thing for me to do right now in terms of club football.

“Inevitably every time I’ve had the opportunity to give my body a rest there has been an international fixture and the demands that come with that.”

Foster currently sits as one of England’s top three goalkeepers but is behind Manchester City’s Joe Hart in the pecking order and has had little chance to impress due to his recent injury woes

“In Joe Hart, England have a goalkeeper who is extremely talented and a top guy and he is an excellent custodian for the national side to have,” Foster added.

“I have no doubt he is going to go on to be one of the greatest.

“But this is the right decision for me as I want to prolong my club career for as long as possible.”