• World Cup

Barry returns to training as England prepare for US

ESPN staff
June 4, 2010
Gareth Barry has made great strides in his recovery from ankle ligament damage © Getty Images
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Gareth Barry took part in training with England on Friday morning as hopes were raised he could return to fitness in time to face USA.

It had been thought Barry could miss the World Cup after he suffered ankle ligament damage in Manchester City's penultimate Premier League game against Tottenham but, following tests, Fabio Capello was confident he would recover in time to take part.

Even so, Barry had been expected to miss the first game, with Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard set to form the central midfield combination.

However, Barry made the final 23-man squad after further tests gave a positive prognosis and, having been involved in training in Rustenburg, it appears he could be involved from the start of the tournament.

The holding midfielder's inclusion in the starting XI would likely see Gerrard shifted to the left side as Capello sticks with his tried and trusted 4-4-2 formation.

England kick off their World Cup campaign against USA on June 12.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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