Terry confident of fitness

England captain John Terry has assured manager Steve McClaren he will be fit for the Euro 2008 qualification double-header early next month.

The Chelsea defender suffered back muscle spasms during training last Friday and missed his club's victory over Fulham at the weekend but he has travelled to Bulgaria for the Blues' Champions League clash with Levski Sofia on Wednesday night.

"I had a text from him yesterday (Monday)," McClaren told Sky Sports News. "It was typical John Terry and he said he'll be all right for Wednesday. He's a tough character.``

McClaren was understandably worried to hear about the 26-year-old's problem with games against Macedonia and Croatia in mind, but Terry was quick to allay the manager's fears.

"Injuries are part and parcel of football, at club level, at international level. I know that with the experience I've got and it's up to us to find players to replace them and give them the opportunity.

"That's what I've certainly been doing over the last few weeks and what I will be doing this week."