Chelsea captain John Terry isn't writing off his chances of playing for England against Croatia in their final Euro2008 qualifier.

The Sun says Terry, 26, started basic training on Monday and will step up his fitness work throughout the week.

Chelsea are even planning a behind-closed-doors match for him. If Terry comes through it, he will call Steve McClaren after Friday's friendly in Austria and ask to be called into the squad to face Group E leaders Croatia.

JT broke down in training on the eve of England's 2-1 defeat in Russia on October 17 - a piece of floating bone was removed from his left knee two days later.

Boss McClaren claimed his skipper was '100 per cent out' last week.

But Terry, who has not played since Chelsea's 1-0 win at Bolton on October 7, is prepared to put his body on the line for his country again.