Terry ruled out of France game

John Terry has been ruled out of England's Euro 2004 opener against France. England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson told a press conference that Terry would 'probably' not be fit for Sunday's game

The coach said that Terry trained today but doubts over his hamstring injury means he is unlikely to make Sunday's clash in Lisbon.

Eriksson said: "He will probably not be fit for Sunday but we are sure he will be fit for Thursday (when England play Switzerland).

"He trained a bit today and will hopefully join in tomorrow - but we think it's dangerous to risk him on Sunday.

"It's a pity he is injured - we all know what a season he's had for Chelsea.

"But that's life and we hope he'll be okay for the second game, we're almost sure he'll be ready for it."

Eriksson would not reveal who would deputise for the Chelsea central defender if as expected he is ruled out - Tottenham's Ledley King or Liverpool's Jamie Carragher.

The 56-year-old revealed he had decided on a replacement should Terry miss out - but predictably would not be drawn on which player had got the nod.

He said: "They are both in good shape and have done well in practice sessions and the games they played."

With the exception of Terry, Eriksson is delighted with the way England's preparations for the tournament have gone.

He added: "We are ready - except Terry we have had no problems at all.

"I've always said the squad is fitter than the World Cup two years ago - so everything looks fine.

"Our only problem since the Japan game is Terry - I think we have a good chance."