Terry set for England nod

Woodgate, 23, is troubled by a thigh injury and may not be fit enough to start at Portman Road.

Terry has made remarkable progress in the past two seasons and on the evidence of Sunday’s performance at Anfield will be a serious contender for a place in Eriksson’s Euro 2004 squad next summer if England qualify.

Eriksson has already lost Owen Hargreaves from his planned line-up but expects that David Beckham and Emile Heskey will be fit enough to train today after missing out yesterday.

Beckham is determined to reclaim the captain’s armband after missing England’s past two games but is unlikely to play 90 minutes. Eriksson once again will probably use the occasion to try out as many players as possible.

Real Madrid’s Far East tour means Beckham’s pre-season preparation is lagging behind that of his England team-mates. “I felt tired and my back was aching after our friendly against Valencia but my general fitness is good and I don’t think I’ll have a problem tomorrow,” he said.

Beckham’s Primera Liga debut, against Real Betis, is a fortnight away, but his performance in Valencia on Sunday was greeted with derision by Spain’s media. “It was hard for Ronaldo and Figo in their first six months at Real Madrid,” he said. “I feel strong enough to handle the criticism.”

Despite his differences with Sir Alex Ferguson — they have not spoken since the final game of last season — Beckham still hopes Manchester United successfully defend their Premiership title. “I’ve got great memories of United,” he said. “I had a good relationship with the fans, the players and everyone involved.”

Beckham also urged Eriksson to stay until England won a major prize. “He’s been good for this team and this country,” he said. “I hope he stays until we win something.”