RICKY Shakes remains on World Cup standby despite Trinidad and Tobago losing a midfielder member of their Germany-bound squad through injury.

Soca Warriors coach Leo Beenhakker has called German-based player Evans Wise into his squad after Silvio Spann developed a hamstring problem.

The player himself said: "It's harsh but it's fair.

"The coach spoke to me and he explained to me why the decision had to be taken.

"I wish my teammates and especially my close friends on the team all the best."

Town's Shakes, who made his full Trinidad and Tobago debut against Iceland in February, must wait by the telephone until June 9 before he is finally sure whether he will be going to the World Cup as a player or as a spectator.

He was not part of his country's preparations during the English leg of their tournament build up, a training camp in Manchester.