Barry out, Parker fit for England

Gareth Barry has been ruled out of Euro 2012 with a stomach muscle injury with Phil Jagielka coming into England’s squad.

A scan on Monday revealed that Barry has a tear in a lower abdominal muscle and manager Roy Hodgson has decided to leave the Manchester City midfielder behind when he takes England to the European Championships.

Everton defender Jagielka, who played in England’s 1-0 friendly win over Norway on Saturday, has been picked as Barry’s replacement.

“I’m very disappointed to lose Gareth,” Hodgson said.

“Not only was he a member of my original 23-man squad but he has featured prominently in the England team over the last few years.

“I know how much he wanted to be part of the tournament but I’m sure he will still have a part to play with England after the Euros.

“I wish him a speedy recovery.”

But in some good news for Hodgson, Tottenham midfielder Scott Parker has proven his fitness for the tournament in Poland and Ukraine, which starts on June 8.

An Achilles injury had cast doubt over Parker’s participation at Euro 2012 with Hodgson required to name his final 23-man squad on Tuesday.

But Parker’s 55 minutes of action against Norway has convinced Hodgson that the defensive midfielder is fit.

Parker was happy with his performance against Norway in Hodgson’s first match as England’s boss.

“It’s always important to be out there,” Parker said.

“It’s a fresh start and, in a way, you’ve got to prove to him you’re worthy of a place in his team.

“It was good to get out there and as a team we showed what we can do.”