Who will win the battle to be England No 1

ROBINSON — That airshot in Croatia had a lasting effect on his confidence and seems to be the underlying reason for his slight dip in form. For it to happen to him, though, means it would have happened to anyone, because he is one of the best kickers I have ever seen.

CARSON — Almost as good as Robbo in what has become an increasingly important part of the keeper's art. It's all about technique. While I used to hoof it as hard as I could, and struggle to reach the halfway line, these two guys make it look effortless. Verdict - Robbo

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SHOT STOPPING

ROBINSON — The best aspect of his game, along with distribution. Fantastic reflexes and agility, he can make the sort of saves that lift people out of their seats. Ability to make an exceptional save at a crucial moment sets the top keepers apart from the rest.

CARSON — Also right out of the top drawer. Whether it's leaving his line to try and save at an opponent's feet or flinging himself full length when the ball looks destined for the top corner, he is right up there with the best.

Verdict - All Square

HANDLING

ROBINSON — Won't have been happy with one of the goals in Russia, when he parried a shot back into the danger area. Has happened for Spurs, too, but normally very secure. Always thought he was a clean catcher when we were at Leeds.

CARSON — Only a young lad when the three of us trained together at Leeds but had all the attributes, including a very safe pair of hands. Whether it was coming for a cross or dealing with a shot, he seldom made a mistake.

VERDICT - ALL SQUARE

COMMAND OF AREA

ROBINSON — Believe me, he is a lot quicker than people think. He can really motor when he decides to leave his line, and it's as well not to get in his way. Judgment is all-important in this department, and his is pretty sound. Wants to impress new Tottenham boss and is going right way about it.

CARSON — I have always been impressed with his ability to read situations and decide whether to take charge or leave it to his defenders. It tends to improve with experience, too, so he really does have the makings of a top keeper. Has height and build to command his box.

Verdict - All Square COMMUNICATION

ROBINSON — Wasn't his strong point in his first season in the Leeds team, but it has got better. You see him barking out orders, and it is clear he is more at ease telling people what to do. It is something that comes with experience.

CARSON — Even allowing for his age, in those early days at Leeds, he was an incredibly quiet lad. You couldn't get a word out of him. No complaints from anyone at Villa, though. Seems happier now, organising his defence and shouting for the ball.

Verdict - All Square

TEMPERAMENT

ROBINSON — So much riding on the outcome that this category should swing it Robbo's way. Has bags of big-match experience, including a World Cup campaign, and won't be fazed by what is at stake.

CARSON — A touch of David Seaman about the way he never seems to get flustered. Cool customer but needs sterner test than Austria posed last week to prove he is ready for an occasion like this.

Verdict - Robbo

FINAL VERDICT - PAUL ROBINSON

Scott's emergence is the best thing that could have happened to Robbo. After seeing off David James, he needed someone to push him and Scott is doing that, as will Ben Foster — when he's fit. But there is no substitute for experience when the stakes are so high, and I see this as an ideal opportunity for Robbo to lay the ghost of Zagreb once and for all.