Gerrard riled by England injury woes

England captain Steven Gerrard says the loss of Gary Cahill is a major blow to his side’s Euro 2012 hopes.

Cahill became the latest player withdrawn from England’s squad having suffered two fractures to his jaw during the 1-0 win over Belgium on Saturday.

Injuries to Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry, as well as back-up goalkeeper John Ruddy, have also left Roy Hodgson’s side short of international experience in midfield.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Gerrard believes the absence of key personnel will damage England’s chances of success in Poland and Ukraine.

“Losing Gary (Cahill) is a massive blow, his performances in the last six months have been colossal for Chelsea,” Gerrard said.

“He was a colossus in the Champions League final win over Bayern Munich. We needed him.”

Liverpool defender Martin Kelly has been brought into the side to replace Cahill, but Gerrard feels the absence of the Chelsea defender is a blow to his country’s hopes of success.

“I am angry because we have lost some big players with a tournament eight or nine days away,” he added.

“That’s the blow and that’s the price you pay for these warm-up games.

“To do well in these tournaments you have to have your big players and to lose Gary is another huge blow on the back of Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry.”

England face France in their opening game on June 11, with Sweden and Ukraine the other opponents in Group D.