Johnson ruled out of England squad

CRYSTAL PALACE striker Andrew Johnson has been forced to withdraw from the England squad for Saturday’s World Cup qualifier against Northern Ireland due to injury.

Johnson was yesterday sent for a scan on an existing ankle injury and the England medical staff concluded he should return to his club for further treatment.

David Beckham also underwent a scan on his persistent back problem but Sven-Goran Eriksson revealed it was “not a problem” and the England captain should train today.