Neville is out of World Cup final

Gary Neville is definitely out of the World Cup finals.

The Manchester United defender has been officially ruled out after breaking a metatarsal in his foot two weeks ago.

Neville's injury is the same as David Beckham's but although the skipper is expected to be fit for Korea/Japan, Neville is reported to have told Sven Goran Eriksson he will not make it.

A statement from Manchester United read: "Following discussions between Gary Neville, the Manchester United medical staff and the club's orthopaedic consultant, it has been agreed that, even with the most optimistic prognosis, Gary will not reach full match fitness by the start of the World Cup.

"Consequently Gary has decided to notify the England manager today of his unavailability for the squad.

"He felt it would have been unfair on the other players and everyone involved with the England set-up to wait for three more weeks before knowing for sure."

Neville's absence could pave the way for brother Phil to travel to the Far East, although Leeds' Danny Mills and Jamie Carragher of Liverpool are also in contention. Owen Hargreaves can also play at right-back.