England squad getting thin

By europeanfootballnews.co.uk
November 13 2006

The England squad travelling to Amsterdam to face Holland on Wednesday evening has been hit with news of no less than six absentees. Gary Neville, Ledley King, Scott Parker, Stewart Downing and Darren Bent were all injured in this weekend's Premiership matches, whereas Chris Kirkland has been released to wait for the birth of his baby.

Covering for right back Gary Neville, suffering from calf injury, could be debutant Micah Richards of Manchester rivals City. With only 18-years of age and mere three U21 caps to his name, Richards could be a gamble for Steve McClaren, but the England manager seems confident.

"I've watched him play a number of times and he's a strong, quick and athletic player who has really impressed at Man City this season," he said.

Tottenham captain King is suffering from knee injury, Middlesbrough winger Downing and Newcastle midfielder Parker from groin injuries and Charlton's on-form striker Bent is battling with hamstring problems. For the latter the news come as devastating, since the friendly against Holland would have been a huge opportunity to make a claim for regular England spot.

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