Terry, Lampard, Gerrard and Hargreaves miss training

LONDON, Sept 4 (Reuters) John Terry, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard and Owen Hargreaves all missed training today when the England squad had its first session ahead of its Euro 2008 qualifiers against Israel and Russia.

Terry, the England skipper, was unwell, Lampard was sent back to Chelsea because of his thigh injury while Gerrard and Hargreaves had gym sessions rather than work out with the other players at London Colney.

Terry and Hargreaves are expected to train tomorrow with the rest of the squad.

Gerrard is recovering from a hairline fracture on a toe but is hoping to be fit for both matches at Wembley Stadium over the next eight days.

Lampard, who tore a thigh muscle in training last week, met up with the squad yesterday. After an examination by medical staff he was allowed to go back to Chelsea and continue his treatment. His place in the team for either match is doubtful.

England face Israel at Wembley on Saturday and play Russia there four days later in two Group E qualifiers. England lie fourth in the standings and trail leaders Croatia by three points.

REUTERS PDS RN2101