Michael Owen is set to miss England’s games against the USA and Trinidad & Tobago with a virus. Photograph: Lee Smith/Action Images

Michael Owen has been forced to withdraw from Fabio Capello’s England squad for the friendlies against the USA and Trinidad & Tobago. The striker has been struck down by a virus and has returned home.

There was further bad news for the England manager when Jermaine Jenas reported for training with an ankle injury. The Spurs midfielder is certain to miss out against the USA and is doubtful for the Trinidad & Tobago friendly.

Capello has told England’s Champions League final players that they will be excused the trip to Trinidad & Tobago on June 1. They will, however, join their England colleagues on Saturday and could be picked to play at home against the USA. The players - Wes Brown, Rio Ferdinand, Owen Hargreaves, Wayne Rooney, John Terry, Ashley Cole, Joe Cole and Frank Lampard - will all be assessed today.

About this articleCloseThis article was first published on guardian.co.uk on Friday May 23 2008. It was last updated at 11:03 on May 23 2008.

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