THE England football team could be capped before they play in the World Cup in France this summer - when they visit a Bourne End dentist for a check-up.>

Dentist Graham fills in for World Cup stars

Picture shows dentist Graham Goodall

THE England football team could be capped before they play in the World Cup in France this summer - when they visit a Bourne End dentist for a check-up.

All 22 members of the final squad, including Shearer, Beckham and Seaman, will call in on dentist Graham Goodall, of The Bourne End Dental Practice, in Station Road, later this month.

England manager Glenn Hoddle and goalkeeping coach Ray Clemence will also be at the surgery, which has been booked for two days.

Mr Goodall said he was first contacted by the England management after being recommended by ex-Liverpool goalkeeper Clemence, who is one of his patients. He said: "I have been involved quite heavily with dealing with soccer players because my wife was in the soccer management business.

"Glenn doesn't want to leave anything to chance so he just wants me to check over all the players in the squad and the management and support staff to minimise the likelihood of problems.

"They don't want any abscesses or wisdom teeth or anything going wrong, so we will make sure they are aurally fit as well as physically fit for the soccer tour. Obviously, we will not take wisdom teeth out unless it's absolutely necessary."

He said he is not daunted at the prospect of dealing with VIP patients, adding: "At the end of the day, their mouths are the same as anyone else's. I would have hoped that their own clubs make sure they are seen at regular intervals.

"I am not daunted by it - not at all. I have dealt with other famous clients, including Rula Lenska."

Mr Goodall's wife Corrinne said: "My husband has been Ray's dentist for a number of years, so that's where the contact came. The players train at Bisham Abbey and stay at Burnham Beeches so it makes more sense to see a good dentist locally."

Other famous sporting patients who frequent Mr Goodhall's surgery include top TV sports commentator Alan Parry and Leicester City manager Martin O'Neill, the former boss of Wycombe Wanderers.

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