Coventry City midfielder Philippe Clement has been given the best of both worlds.

The Belgian international had told Gordon Strachan he was prepared to turn his back on his country in a bid to help City pull clear of relegation trouble but has now been given a compromise.

His country, who co-host the Euro 2000 championships, are playing two friendly games in Cyprus this week – which would have meant the summer signing missing Saturday’s crucial trip to Tottenham.

But Clement has now joined up with his international team-mates and will fly home to Coventry after their game tomorrow night giving him time to prepare for the clash at Spurs.

In fact Clement, who has been out of action with a back problem in the last few weeks, could well benefit from the extra match practice.

City boss Gordon Strachan said:

"Philippe has shown a great attitude in that he is prepared to put the club first. He will be coming back to join us on Friday in time for the trip to Tottenham."

Meanwhile Noel Whelan is still waiting to here if he will win his first England call up when the squad to face France is named later this week.

"I am not too sure if I will get the call and at the moment nothing has changed – England is in my sights but the main aim is to play for Coventry. If it comes great, if not I will get on with the football here.

"I played for the under 21s when I was 18 and at Leeds and it would be nice for the hard work to be rewarded. I knew Glenn Hoddle was at the game on Saturday - I heard before the game. That is not always a good thing as you can freeze but I had a good game and managed to get a goal as well."