Chris Smalling has been ruled out of Euro 2012 with a groin problem, handing Roy Hodgson his first injury setback ahead of the tournament.
United defender sidelined with groin injury
Chris Smalling has been ruled out of Euro 2012 with a groin problem, handing new England manager Roy Hodgson his first injury setback ahead of the tournament.
Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed the news on Friday morning after Smalling suffered the injury during last week's win over Swansea at Old Trafford.
The versatile Smalling has impressed for the Red Devils this season and has made the breakthrough into the international scene.
He was expected to be part of the 23-man squad which Hodgson will name on Wednesday, but has now seen his summer dreams dashed.
Bad injury
"Chris has suffered a bad injury," said Ferguson.
"It is a groin muscle injury and he will miss the European Championships.
"We are assessing what to do at the moment but it is a bad injury."
Ferguson confirmed Danny Welbeck would be available for this summer's tournament, even though he will miss Sunday's trip to Sunderland with an ankle injury.
"He is still out just now but he should be fit for the Euros," Ferguson said.
