Reid has been carrying the injury since the end of the East London club’s promotion-winning season and New Zealand‘s potential schedule in the Solomon Islands – which could see them play five games in 10 days – would risk further damage.
All Whites coach Ricki Herbert has called up 21-year-old Waitakere United defender Tim Myers to replace Reid.
“It’s disappointing to not have Winston joining us here,” Herbert says.
“He’s a big part of our plans as we aim to qualify for the World Cup in Brazil.
“However, the last two games have shown that the players we do have available can get the first part of that job done here in the Solomon Islands.”
Herbert has confidence that the uncapped Myers, a member of the Oly Whites squad which qualified for the London Olympic Games, will be able to handle the step up to the senior stage.
“Tim is another promising young player from the ASB Premiership,” Herbert says.
“He’s part of the Olympic team and will do the shirt proud if called upon during this tournament.”

Share