England News

• Nickname:Three Lions
• Founded: 1872
• Manager:Roy Hodgson

• Ground:Wembley Stadium
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Hargreaves misses Austria

14 Nov 2007 - 11:08:48

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Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has been ruled out of England's friendly international in Austria on Friday due to ongoing knee problems.

The 26-year-old is hopeful of being fit and available for the potentially crucial qualifier against Croatia at Wembley next Wednesday, having remained with his club for further treatment.

An FA spokesman said: "Owen Hargreaves is recovering from a long-term injury.

"Having discussed it with Manchester United, it was felt he should remain in Manchester for treatment until the weekend, with the emphasis on his fitness for the Croatia qualifier."

Hargreaves has made only six appearances for the Red Devils since his summer arrival from Bayern Munich, being forced off late on in the 2-0 win over Blackburn Rovers last weekend.

Meanwhile, Chelsea winger Shaun Wright-Phillips also sat out England training on Wednesday due to a slight ankle problem, but is expected to be fit and ready to travel to Vienna.