BRIDGE AND KIRKLAND FORCED OUT
Wigan goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has followed Chelsea's Wayne Bridge
out of the England squad through injury ahead of Wednesday's
friendly clash with Spain.
Bridge's injury is likely to come as a major worry for Blues boss
Jose Mourinho, who has recently lost the services of his other
England left-back, Ashley Cole, for most of the remainder of the
campaign.
Bridge limped out of England training after just 15 minutes at
Carrington on Monday, due to a thigh strain.
The 26-year-old seemed certain to win his 25th cap in midweek but
has now returned to Stamford Bridge for treatment, with Mourinho no
doubt desperately hoping the damage is not too serious.
Bridge's injury is likely to give Aston Villa's Gareth Barry a
chance to start at left-back on his return to the international
fold.
Kirkland has been forced out with a shoulder injury, while Andy
Johnson dropped out earlier on Monday after making his return to
Premiership action at Liverpool on Saturday. Jermaine Jenas (ankle)
had already been ruled out, while Owen Hargreaves confirmed he will
play no part in the fixture as he continues his rehabilitation from
a broken leg.
There was some good news for England boss Steve McClaren though,
with Wayne Rooney cleared to join up with the squad despite limping
off in Manchester United's win at Tottenham on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Manchester City's Joey Barton could make his
international debut against Spain, but his involvement is almost
certain to be limited to that of substitute, with Steven Gerrard,
Frank Lampard and Michael Carrick set to keep their places.
