The England squad are without Chelsea’s John Terry and Aston Villa striker Darius Vassell for tomorrow night’s friendly with Portugal.
Terry was expected to partner Gareth Southgate at the heart of the defence. However the Chelsea captain will not be risked after picking up a shin injury during Sunday’s FA Cup defeat to Arsenal Sol Campbell, an injury doubt before Sunday’s game, dropped out the squad despite playing ninety minutes for Arsenal.
Tottenham defender Ledley King who replaced Campbell could get a chance from the start.
A party of only 22 will depart today for Faro after Vassell fell ill during Monday night. England coach Eriksson will not call up either Southampton’s James Beattie whose club form has dipped this year, or Tottenham striker Jermaine Defoe.
