McClaren’s squad trimmed to 22 as six players pull out of friendly

STEVE McCLAREN’S massive England squad for this week’s friendly with Holland at the Amsterdam ArenA on Wednesday has been trimmed down to 22 following the withdrawal of half a dozen players yesterday.

Aside from full-back Gary Neville, who was pulled out by Alex Ferguson on Saturday after aggravating a calf injury in the win over Blackburn, McClaren has also lost striker Darren Bent, midfielders Stewart Downing and Scott Parker and Tottenham defender Ledley King.

In addition, Wigan keeper Chris Kirkland has been given leave of absence as his wife is due to give birth to the couple’s first child this week.