Terry gives England boost

Captain John Terry has trained with his England team-mates ahead of their crucial Euro 2008 qualifier against Croatia at Wembley.

But the talismanic Chelsea centre-back is not expected to return to lead Steve McClaren's men as they bid to claim the point which would see them book their place in next summer's European Championship finals in Austria and Switzerland.

Terry has been on the sidelines since suffering a knee injury last month but returned to training with Chelsea last week.

And Steven Gerrard, who will once again lead his country, said: "I've spoken to John and he tells us he's not ready but he'll still be there and be a big help to all the players."

McClaren added: "Although he's not fit to play, it's great to have him around. We've also got the likes of Michael Owen, Rio Ferdinand and Wayne Rooney there tomorrow night.

"But it's all about the players who are crossing that white line and the subs who might make an impact."

With injury ruling Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney out of the final Group E qualifier, Peter Crouch is expected to lead the line at Wembley with Joe Cole and either Shaun Wright-Phillips or David Beckham on the flanks.

Crouch took his tally of international goals to 13 as he headed England to a 1-0 friendly victory in Austria last Friday and McClaren will be banking on his aerial ability against Slaven Bilic's men.

The striker, who has struggled to win a place in Liverpool's starting XI, is confident in his own abilities.

He told reporters: "There have been a few times when I have scored a couple of goals at club level and my place still is not assured, whereas at other places maybe it would be.

"I have always believed in my own ability but maybe at times, I feel I deserved more chances."

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