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.

Newcastle midfielder Kieron Dyer was also absent from training yesterday. He also has a foot injury. However, it is understood not to be serious and he, along with Steven Gerrard, Stewart Downing, Jamie Carragher and Emile Heskey, is expected to train with the rest of the squad today.