Jagielka in as Barry out of Euros
ENGLAND manager Roy Hodgson’s plans for his maiden tournament in charge suffered their first major setback yesterday when midfielder Gareth Barry was ruled out of next month’s European Championship.
Manchester City’s Barry was withdrawn after scans confirmed a torn stomach muscle, suffered in Saturday’s 1-0 win against Norway in Oslo, Hodgson’s first match since being appointed this month.
He has been replaced in England’s 23-man squad for Euro 2012 by Everton defender Phil Jagielka, with Hodgson well stocked for midfielders and able to deploy the versatile Phil Jones in either area.
“I’m very disappointed to lose Gareth,” said the England manager, who only has until this morning to register any changes to his party.
“Not only was he a member of my original 23-man squad but he has featured prominently in the England team over the last few years.
“I know how much he wanted to be part of the tournament but I’m sure he will still have a part to play with England after the Euros. I wish him a speedy recovery.”
Jagielka’s call-up comes after he played 90 minutes against Norway despite only being on the stand-by list, and provides Hodgson with further cover at right-back, with his only specialist, Glen Johnson, recovering from a toe infection.
Hodgson’s decision might have been different had Manchester United’s Michael Carrick not ruled himself out of contention because he did not want to travel without being a first-team player.
Barry’s injury also raises doubts about his international career. The former Aston Villa player will be 33 by the 2014 World Cup in Brazil and, while his game does not rely on pace, he faces a decision on whether to commit to another campaign or focus on prolonging his club career, as others such as Paul Scholes have.
England play Belgium in a final warm-up match on Saturday at Wembley before departing for the tournament. Their first match is against France on 11 June.