Manager Rafael Benitez is closely monitoring the midfielder's progress after he was withdrawn from the England squad because of the problem.

In his abscence England drew 2-2 with Holland last night in a friendly.

Benitez said: "I am not sure about Steven. I was really pleased he was pulled out of the squad as a precaution.

"You could see there were six substitutions in the game, so Fabio Capello was doing great for the players.

"As our game is on the Sunday, then maybe Steven will have a chance. If it was on Saturday it would be more difficult."