Gerrard out of Belarus clash
Gerrard pulls out of England clash against Belarus
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By Matthew Champion. |  |
Tuesday, 13, Oct 2009 03:45
By Michael Younger.
England's injury list continues to grow ahead of Wednesday's final World Cup qualification game against Belarus, as Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard limped out of training earlier today.
The Three Lions are set to face Belarus without leading striker Wayne Rooney, who has returned to Manchester following a calf injury sustained during England's away defeat at the hands of Ukraine on Saturday.
Portsmouth goalkeeper David James, who has only recently returned from injury, is another doubt after sitting out Tuesday's training session with a knee problem, while Joe Cole and Owen Hargreaves continue to be absentees for Fabio Capello as they continue their returns from long-term injuries.
The Italian confirmed Gerrard's absence ahead of the clash at Wembley, saying: "He didn't finish training because the pain was the same as yesterday so he is going back to Liverpool."
The midfielder was earlier rated as a doubt for the game after being substituted at half-time with a groin injury during England's defeat in Ukraine on Saturday.
And despite originally staying with the squad for his injury to be assessed he will not play any part on Wednesday.
With Gerrard ruled out, Aston Villa winger James Milner - who replaced him in Dnepropetrovsk - is likely to start a senior international game for the first time on the left wing, as Capello looks for his fringe players to make an impact.