• World Cup

Barry to face rigorous fitness tests

Harry Harris, Soccernet correspondent
May 31, 2010
Gareth Barry suffered his ankle injury against Tottenham at the start of May © Getty Images
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Gareth Barry will undergo a rigorous round of tests and assessments on Tuesday morning from Fabio Capello's own medical team before the England coach is satisfied that he can play a pivotal part in the World Cup.

The optimism for the past week that Barry will be included in the final 23 has emanated from the scans and report from the surgeon who carried out the operation on his ruptured ankle ligaments, but Capello wants a more independent and up-to-date analysis.

If there is a chance Barry could make it, even if he would not be fit for the opening tie against USA on June 12, than Capello will take him. However, there is a contingency plan in place.

Instead of a straightforward replacement in Scott Parker, for instance, Capello has decided to include James Milner as a central midfielder rather than a winger. That gives Shaun Wright-Phillips a chance of making the squad, as it is anticipated both Aaron Lennon and Theo Walcott have already been earmarked as part of the final 23.

An FA insider told Soccernet: "No decision on Gareth Barry will be taken until he has a proper scan by Fabio Capello's own medical department.

"The last time he had a scan and a report on his progress, it came from his specialist, and the prognosis was quite good, and there has been optimism that he will make it, but now he must undergo our own checks."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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