Terry may miss French opener
(Agencies)
Updated: 2004-06-09 09:39

England central defender John Terry has missed training and his availability for Sunday's opening Euro 2004 game against holders France is "in the balance."

An FA spokesman said on Tuesday: "John Terry tonight had an MRI scan on his hamstring. There is good news as there is no major damage to the muscle. Therefore he will continue with aggressive rehabilitation over the next few days.

"However, his availability for the France game remains in the balance."

Terry, who suffered a hamstring injury in last Tuesday's 1-1 friendly draw with Japan in Manchester, could be replaced by Jamie Carragher.

The Liverpool right-back took Terry's place in Saturday's 6-1 drubbing of Iceland and received the strong backing of club team mate Michael Owen on Tuesday.

"Jamie's one of the most intelligent footballers you can get," said the England striker. "He can play in any position on the pitch.

"A lot of people say he's best at centre half and he played a bit towards the back end of last year there and did really well. I'd have no worries about him playing."

Chelsea's Terry appeared with a heavily strapped left knee when training started, and did not take part. Carragher would form England's central partnership at the back with Sol Campbell if Terry became the fourth central defender to be ruled out.

Coach Sven-Goran Eriksson is missing Campbell's World Cup partner Rio Ferdinand after the Manchester United defender was banned for eight months after missing a drugs test last season.

Gareth Southgate and Jonathan Woodgate were sidelined by injuries in the run-up to Euro 2004, giving Carragher and youngster Ledley King their places in Eriksson's squad.

"The defence is a very strong part of our team," Owen said. "Sure, we've had a few injuries but I still feel it's fantastic.

"We had one of the best defences at the last World Cup and I feel we've got equally as good a defence this time, whoever plays."

England's Group B campaign continues with games against Switzerland and Croatia.