Barry out of England opener

Gareth Barry has confirmed he will sit out England's first World Cup match against the United States on Saturday, rather than risk his injured ankle.
Manchester City midfielder Barry has made a rapid recovery since damaging his ligaments against Tottenham Hotspur on May 5 and will resume full training sooner than expected

Having been given a deadline of June 13, the day after England's opener at the Royal Bafokeng Stadium, to begin full training, Barry will actually start playing a major part in all sessions from Tuesday.

However, England coach Fabio Capello has decided not to rush back the holding midfielder.

"I've been told I'm not playing against USA to give me more time," Barry told the News of the World. "I'll be back in full training with the team from tomorrow."

In Barry's absence, Capello looks likely to team Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard in central midfield on Saturday, with Joe Cole occupying the left-sided berth.

The trio all started Monday's 3-0 practice match win against the Platinum Stars, with Cole remaining on the pitch after half-time, when Wayne Rooney and Emile Heskey made their entrance.