Gary Cahill has been called up by England to replace the injured Phil Jagielka for Tuesday’s Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro at Wembley (1/7 to win Group G).
The Everton defender was forced to sit out training on Friday after suffering a hamstring injury earlier in the week.
Jagielka, who started last month’s win in Switzerland, underwent a scan and the medical team confirmed he would not be able to play any part against Montenegro (11/1 to win Group G).
The 28-year-old has now been replaced by Bolton’s Cahill, although Fabio Capello is expected to recall Rio Ferdinand and John Terry to the starting line-up.
England should also be able to call upon Gareth Barry in midweek, after the Manchester City returned to the Three Lions (8/1 Euro 2012 Outright Winners) camp.
Barry was allowed to have additional time at home because of personal reasons, but the midfielder is likely to start on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, there remain question marks over whether Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere will play any part for the senior squad.
The Gunners’ youngster is expected to team up with Capello’s men despite featuring for the Under 21’s on Friday evening.
Wilshere played a key role in helping Stuart Pearce’s men claim a 2-1 victory over Romania at Carrow Road, in the first leg of their Euro 2011 play-off.
Pearce said afterwards: “I spoke with Fabio before the match was played, and I think Jack will be meeting up with the seniors.
“Part of me is pleased that he is going, as it shows to the rest of the squad the pathway which is there for the players, part of me would have liked to have him in Romania.
“However, we feel as if we have quality in the squad and whomever plays will do themselves proud on Tuesday.”
England are currently second in Group G having played a game less than Montenegro, who defeated Switzerland 1-0 on Friday evening.
Tuesday’s match will be England’s final game of the year, with Euro 2010 qualifying not resuming until March 2011.
Following the international break, Capello will take his squad to Cardiff to face Wales (33/1 to qualify for Euro 2012), still pointless in the group, on Saturday March 26.
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Germany produced the best performance by any team at the World Cup so far by destroying Australia 4-0 (9/1 Germany – World Cup 2010 – outright).
Tim Cahill claims he knows Australia (15/2 to win Group D) face a tough challenge to make it into the knockout stages of the World Cup this summer, but he remains confident they can surprise a few people.