England hopeful over Gerrard

England hope Steven Gerrard will be available for next week's friendly against Germany after he had a pain-killing injection in his hip.

Gerrard has been troubled by a hip niggle over the last few weeks and he was officially ruled out of Friday's game against Chile.

But England manger Roy Hodgson revealed in a media briefing before training that he has sanctioned a pain-killing injection in the hope that the player could be available for Germany's visit to Wembley on Tuesday.

Gerrard's absence from the Chile game means that Frank Lampard will captain the team so long as he overcomes the mild cold that did not prevent him from training on Wednesday.

Uncapped Southampton midfielder Adam Lallana is likely to get a run out, as is his team-mate Jay Rodriguez.

Saints striker Rickie Lambert enjoyed a successful debut against Scotland in August and he hopes Southampton's two latest international hopefuls can make a similar impact over the next few days.

"I am sure that if they get the chance, it's possible (they could do the same)," Lambert said.

"They are absolutely great players. When they get the cap I am sure they will do well.

"They are very mentally strong. Even though they are happy to be here, they fully understand that you have to impress and they are determined to do that."

Kyle Walker has had an injection on an unspecified injury while Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge missed training on Wednesday due to a bruised foot.

Stand-in captain Lampard will be awarded a golden cap to commemorate his achievement of reaching 100 caps last month and he will be joined by his two daughters Isla and Luna, who will be mascots at Wembley.