Johnson adds to England injury woes
Johnson was expected to start for England against the Germans
Tuesday, 21, Aug 2007 05:13
Striker Andrew Johnson has become the latest player to be ruled out of England's friendly against Germany with a knee problem.
The Everton hitman has returned to Merseyside after complaining of discomfort in the joint.
He went to see the England physio who referred him to the team doctor for a scan, which revealed there was a slight build-up of fluid in the knee.
A statement from Johnson's club today read: "Andrew Johnson has been ruled out of England's friendly against Germany through injury.
"The Everton striker will miss the contest at Wembley due to fluid on his knee.
"Johnson, who has seven England caps to date, will now return to Bellefield."
England coach Steve McClaren is now short on options up front for tomorrow's match, with Darren Bent already withdrawn from the 28-man squad along with long-term injury victim Wayne Rooney.
Michael Owen is a certain starter as McClaren looks to give him some game-time after he returned from injury in the Premier League last week.
Peter Crouch could start alongside Owen but the tall striker is suspended for the next competitive game against Israel after picking up a second booking in the qualifying campaign.
It means Jermain Defoe could earn a starting berth alongside Owen, although McClaren is reportedly keen to avoid playing the two alongside each other because their styles of play are so similar.