• World Cup

Barry positive over World Cup fitness battle

ESPN staff
May 22, 2010
Gareth Barry injured his ankle against Tottenham © Getty Images
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Gareth Barry is positive about his prospects of being passed fit for England's World Cup bid, but faces a crunch meeting with a specialist on Monday.

The Manchester City man damaged an ankle towards the end of the season and has made slow progress in his recovery bid. He has taken steps including sleeping in an oxygen tent in a bid to prove his well-being and is hopeful of getting the green light from Fabio Capello.

"I'm still feeling positive," Barry told the Guardian. "I've stayed in Manchester and worked closely with the fitness coaches at the club.

"There had been a little confusion when it was thought I was only seeing the specialist on May 29 - a day before we play Japan in our last friendly.

"But I called the manager and explained that the actual date is May 24. So he was able to include me in the provisional squad and I've done everything I can - like sleeping in an oxygen tent to speed up the recovery.

"I'm hopeful I'll get the all-clear, even though I'll be crossing my fingers."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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