Maradona was a cheat, says Robinson
Soccernet
England goalkeeper Paul Robinson believes the clash against Argentina in Geneva on Saturday will be played with greater intensity than a friendly, given the hostile history between the two sides.
Although there is nothing at stake in the match the fierce rivalry between the two countries, with controversial meetings since the 1986 World Cup when Diego Maradona's 'Hand of God' helped Argentina to a memorable victory, will give the game an added edge.
And the England keeper pulled no punches in his prematch comments as when he branded Argentina legend Maradona 'a cheat'.
'There's a great history between the sides. I remember the 1986 game, that was the first World Cup I really remember. I watched it and I was absolutely gutted afterwards,' robinson told the FA.
'Maradona was a cheat but he got away with it. It's still talked about nowbut it's a very long time ago. We won't be thinking or looking back at that, we will be taking the game on its merit and hopefully getting a result.'
The two countries met again in the 1998 World Cup when Argentina triumphed on penalties after David Beckham was sent off, while four years later England won 1-0 after an inspired performance from Rio Ferdinand.
'I remember we beat them in the last World Cup and now we have a chance to do it again,' Robinson added.
Robinson, 26, revealed his delight at fans considering him England's first-choice goalkeeper, adding: 'It's different class. There's nothing you can say to explain the feeling. To be regarded like that by so many people is a fantastic achievement.
'But it's also a responsibility to make sure I carry on doing that and to keep people happy. Hopefully I can do that against Argentina.'
