England boss Steve McClaren has played down injury fears hanging over Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves.

"Owen's thigh felt tight after we started training yesterday, so he sat out most of the session," said McClaren. "As a precaution he was sent for a scan. Thankfully the scan only revealed a small problem and we are hoping it will clear. We are still hoping he will be available for Saturday, and he is definitely not ruled out."

McClaren confirmed the new injury is not related to the tendonitis problem Hargreaves has been suffering from since the end of last season.