England have received some positive news on the injury front with Rio Ferdinand's scan on his groin showing no damage and Gary Neville also receiving an encouraging update on his fitness.


The Manchester United defensive duo have caused concern for Sven Goran Eriksson and, in the wake of confirmation that Michael Owen's knee ligament injury will keep him out for at least five months, there will be a great deal of relief for the Swedish coach.


Ferdinand limped out of the action in Tuesday's 2-2 draw with Sweden and saw his replacement Sol Campbell fail to cut out the cross that led to Henrik Larsson's late leveller in Cologne.


There were worries that the £30 million centre half had suffered a groin strain but the scan was clear on that area at a clinic near England's Baden-Baden training camp.


Neville's calf problem is making "significant improvement" according to FA director of communications Adrian Bevington and both players will continue to be closely monitored as they bid to regain full fitness.


Ferdinand will hope to be able to start against Ecuador on Sunday although that game may come too soon for Neville, despite the encouraging news on the injury.
The Manchester United skipper is keen to dislodge Jamie Carragher and regain his place in the side.

Taken from SkySports

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