RICARDO Gardner’s World Cup dream might be over – but his form for Wanderers is certainly on the up, according to Gary Megson.

Jamaica were squeezed out of their CONCACAF qualifying group in midweek when despite a 3-0 win over Canada, their third victory in as many games, a shock defeat for Mexico against Honduras saw the Reggae Boyz tumble out of the tournament on goal difference.

Their exit will come as a massive blow to the national skipper, who desperately wanted to lead his side to South Africa.

The travelling involved for the game means Gardner is likely to start on the bench for today’s game at Middlesbrough, but Megson hopes his improved club form can help him overcome his World Cup disappointment.

“Bibi has been playing very well,” the manager said. “He did well when he came on against Liverpool and against Manchester City, and started the game against Hull.

“He gives us something that we don’t really have – a great deal of pace and penetration down that left hand side. But there are times when we need to utilise that and there are times when we need other people in there.”

Jamaica’s exit could prove a blessing in disguise for Wanderers, with Gardner no longer required to travel huge distances to play in the latter qualifying stages.

This week’s game in Kingston saw him leave straight after the final whistle last Saturday and not return to the club until late Friday afternoon.

Despite the bumper air miles, Megson said the 29-year-old’s attitude towards the game remains “first class”.

“He is a good lad, a good player and really popular with the players and the staff,” he said. “If every player in football had the same personality as Bibi, there would be a lot fewer problems to deal with.”