Sotherton: I will be fit for Birmingham showdown

Posted: Monday 16th February 2009 | 9:25

KELLY Sotherton insists she will be fit for next weekend's head-to-head with Nataliya Dobrynska despite suffering a hip injury.

DON'T PANIC: Sotherton admits injury scare is not serious

Sotherton and the Olympic heptathlon champion are set for a much-hyped showdown in Birmingham on Saturday as part of a special three-event challenge at the Grand Prix at the National Indoor Arena.

But Sotherton's chances of competing hang in the balance as she twice pulled out of events at the British Championships in Sheffield at the weekend, citing a hip problem and not, as first feared the back problem that has plagued her season thus far.

The injury initially struck on Saturday when the 2004 Olympic bronze medallist withdrew from the long jump after her fifth leap, and despite returning to action 24 hours later, she was back on the treatment table after just two attempts in the high jump.

Should the injury keep her out next weekend it will come as a bitter blow for Sotherton, who had looked in good shape, finishing second in the 60m hurdles in a time of 8.30 seconds and clinching silver in the shot on Sunday with a season's best throw of 14.50m.

But the 32-year-old remains hopeful that she will recover in time to face Dobrynska.

"I withdrew from the high jump with a reoccurrence of a hip problem I had yesterday that caused me to also pull out from the long jump," said Sotherton.

"It was just a precaution and I fully expect to be back to fitness and competing in Birmingham next weekend."

NICK CLOWES