England News

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

• Ground:Wembley Stadium
• Capacity:90,000

Micah winning fitness race

23 Mar 2007 - 14:26:53

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England manager Steve McClaren has not given up hope that Manchester City defender Micah Richards will be fit enough to feature in the Euro 2008 qualifier against Israel.

The 18-year-old missed training on Thursday because of a calf problem, but was expected to be able to do some work on the eve of the Tel Aviv clash.

McClaren is keen to utilise the teenager's talents in place of first-choice right-back Gary Neville, who misses the game through injury.

"Micah should train with the team today (Friday) - and as long as he comes through everyone will be fit," said the former Middlesbrough manager.

"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."

McClaren also hopes Jonathan Woodgate will be fit enough to play in next Wednesday's qualifier against Andorra.

The centre-back, on loan at Middlesbrough from Real Madrid, misses the Israel match because of a knee injury.

McClaren added: "Unfortunately Jonathan has had to go back to club for his 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 come to Israel 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."