Bridge and Kirkland join absentee list
Five players have pulled out of the squad since it was announced by McClaren on Friday
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Monday, 05, Feb 2007 10:02
Wayne Bridge and goalkeeper Chris Kirkland are the latest names to pull out of the England squad for Wednesday's friendly with Spain.
The Chelsea defender has withdrawn because of a thigh strain while Wigan shot-stopper Kirkland has a shoulder injury.
Bridge, 26, lasted just 15 minutes of England's first training session at Carrington and has returned to Stamford Bridge for treatment.
Bridge's injury leaves boss Steve McClaren without an established left-back after Ashley Cole's knee injury last week.
Everton's Phil Neville or Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry could be used as a makeshift fullback.
Goalkeeper Kirkland's injury means Watford shot-stopper Ben Foster is likely to be on the bench behind number one choice Paul Robinson.
Latics boss Paul Jewell said Kirkland had withdrawn as a precaution.
"Chris should be fine for Arsenal at the weekend," Jewell told the club's official website.
"But he's been such an important figure for us this season that we're not in a position where we can take any risks."
A total of five players have pulled out of the England squad while a decision on Wayne Rooney's fitness is expected to be made tomorrow.
Bridge and Kirkland join Owen Hargreaves, Jermaine Jenas, and Andy Johnson on the growing list of certain absentees.
Manchester City star Joey Barton is set to make his international debut at Old Trafford in midfield alongside Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, and Michael Carrick.