Woodgate and Richards hopeful

12 April 2012

England manager Steve McClaren delivered a clean bill of health on Friday and raised hopes that defender Jonathan Woodgate could be back to play a part in next week's Euro 2008 qualifier against Andorra.

With first choice right-back Gary Neville also out injured, McClaren had good news concerning his stand-in Micah Richards after the Manchester City defender did not train at the new Wembley Stadium on Thursday with a calf injury.

He said: "Micah should train with the team (on Friday) - and as long as he comes through everyone will be fit."

Centre-back Woodgate, on loan at Middlesbrough from Real Madrid, was ruled out of Saturday's match with Israel with a knee injury, but McClaren said his treatment in England is continuing - and he could be available for Wednesday's clash in Barcelona.

He added: "Unfortunately Jonathan has had to go back to his club for further treatment.

"But it may be possible that on Sunday or Monday he may be able to come out to join us for Wednesday. We've got 23 players - more than enough to cover every position.

"It's a team effort - it's up to everybody now. We've done a lot of talking and now have to deliver on the pitch. We've got eight games to qualify."

The former Middlesbrough boss believes a good performance is essential from his players.

He explained: "We're here to win a game - but we have come here determined to put on a performance. If we get that, we've got a good chance of winning.

"There's always pressure for England - every game is a big game. But I've certainly been looking forward to it since the Croatia defeat (in October). These are the games where we need to deliver."

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