• Euro 2012

Defoe returns to England squad

ESPN staff
June 9, 2012
Jermaine Defoe arrives at the Stary Hotel © PA Photos
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Jermain Defoe arrived back at England's training base in Krakow on Saturday morning having flown home to visit his family following the death of his father.

Defoe had returned to England on Thursday on compassionate grounds, but the player was eager to play his part at Euro 2012.

It was thought Defoe could miss England's Group D opener with France on Monday, but he should now be available for selection although he is only expected to be among the substitutes. It will be a boost for coach Roy Hodgson, with Wayne Rooney's suspension leaving him short on options for England's first two games.

The Football Association is reportedly concerned that Defoe has missed key training sessions leading up to the game. Defoe did not start either of England's two warm-up matches, with first Andy Carroll and then Danny Welbeck preferred as the lone striker.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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