Liverpool Echo: Kelly eyes England spot

Glen Johnson is a major fitness doubt for England's friendly against Norway in Oslo tomorrow.

The Reds right-back limped out of training just minutes into a session at Manchester City's Etihad Stadium yesterday.

The Football Association revealed Johnson is suffering from an infected toe and is having treatment in a bid to be fit for Roy Hodgson's first game as England boss.

If Johnson fails to recover then Liverpool clubmate Martin Kelly could earn a first senior cap against the Norwegians.

Kelly was called up as defensive cover earlier this week but the 22-year-old is expected to return to Merseyside after the weekend.

Johnson is Hodgson's only recognised right-back in the 23-man squad for Euro 2012 following Micah Richards' omission and injury to Tottenham's Kyle Walker.

Manchester United's Phil Jones would be the favourite to deputise at right-back tomorrow, but Kelly is in contention to play some part in the friendly.

Reds trio Steven Gerrard, Stewart Downing and Andy Carroll are all fit to face Norway.

Source: Liverpool Echo