Terry facing race against time to be fit for England opener

England defender John Terry missed the squad’s training session on Tuesday after failing to overcome a hamstring strain.

Instead, the former skipper continued his recovery work as he battles to be fit for the Three Lions’ opening game of Euro 2012 against France on Monday.

England’s cautious approach to Terry’s injury – which he sustained during Saturday’s friendly win over Belgium – is understandable. The Chelsea man has yet to kick a ball since the victory, while Kyle Walker and Gary Cahill have both been ruled out in recent weeks through injury.

However, the FA are remaining positive following the news, particularly in light of the rumbling furore over the decision to take Terry ahead of Rio Ferdinand to the Euros, and released a statement on Tuesday night confirming all members of the England squad had either taken part in training or recovery work.

And former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has offered his support to Roy Hodgson following comments by Ferdinand’s agent describing the supposed snub as a ‘disgrace’.

The Swede believes the newly-appointed boss should not be criticised for the decision and has rubbished suggestions that there is a link between the United man’s exclusion and the ongoing race row between Terry and Ferdinand’s younger brother Anton.

“We mustn’t forget that Rio has suffered from injuries this season,” Eriksson wrote in Expressen.

“Roy has his reasons. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have rejected Rio – twice.

“Many try to connect the dots between the race allegations against John Terry and Roy leaving Ferdinand out of the squad. I know there is no truth in these claims. How? You’re just going to have to trust me.”

Eriksson was also quick to suggest that fans should wait until after the tournament before making judgement on Hodgson’s managerial ability.

“Roy’s got rock-solid knowledge when it comes to the players’ current form,” he said.

“So let me suggest that we all save our verdicts until after the tournament.”