22 March 2005    
Sven-Goran Eriksson Press Conference

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Andrew Johnson has been sent home from the England camp ahead of Saturday's World Cup qualifier with Northern Ireland after a scan on an ankle injury.

Manager Sven-Goran Eriksson decided not to risk the Crystal Palace striker for this weekend after being told he would not be able to train until Thursday at the earliest.

Johnson will now return to his club and Eriksson has decided not to bring in a replacement.

The Three Lions manager said: "Johnson had a scan and we have decided to send him home. I was told he would not be ready until Thursday or Friday and I do not want to risk him. He will be better off at home getting treatment.

"We already have four other strikers so I will not bring anyone else in."

David Beckham also underwent a back scan on Tuesday afternoon but will return to training on Wednesday. Kieron Dyer will also return to training tomorrow.

Johnson's release from the squad means there may now be more chance of Emile Heskey featuring in Saturday's Old Trafford game.

And Eriksson is confident the Birmingham forward would be ready for the clash.

Eriksson added: "He is playing very well and after watching him we decided to bring him in to the squad. He is stronger than the other players and he has played well for England before."