James misses training

12 April 2012

England goalkeeper David James missed training and Steven Gerrard returned to the dressing room midway through the session on the eve of the World Cup qualifier against Belarus.

James was the only absentee from the 23-man squad on the day before the Wembley clash, although the Portsmouth stopper was not sent back to his club.

The 22 remaining players trained at Arsenal's London Colney complex, with West Ham striker Carlton Cole the last out of the dressing room to join the group.

England Under-21 coach Stuart Pearce oversaw a light session of ball work after the players warmed up, then goalkeepers Joe Hart and Ben Foster trained separately while the rest of the players played 10 v 10.

It was during this session Liverpool skipper Gerrard returned to the dressing room, accompanied by physio Gary Lewin.

England boss Fabio Capello has previously stated he wants to pick his strongest possible starting XI for the Belarus clash, even though his side have secured their place at the World Cup in South Africa next year.

Robert Green is suspended after being sent off in Saturday's defeat to Ukraine and Wayne Rooney is out through injury.

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