World Cup 2018: England star Jordan Henderson in fitness scare ahead of semi-final against Croatia
Midfield ace has been key in role as deep-lying playmaker but should be fine to face Croatia on Wednesday
JORDAN HENDERSON is expected to overcome a fitness scare and start for England in the World Cup semi-final.
The Liverpool skipper suffered a hamstring problem in the superb 2-0 victory over Sweden.
But boss Gareth Southgate hopes he will be able to train today and face Croatia.
Henderson, who has been outstanding as England’s midfield pivot in Russia, tweaked a hamstring before being withdrawn in the 85th minute on Saturday.
Henderson said: “I was just a little bit tight before the game.
“Towards the last 20 minutes, I just overstretched and I felt the hamstring a little bit. But it doesn’t feel too bad so, hopefully, it will be fine.”
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If Henderson is passed fit, Southgate may be tempted to employ Eric Dier alongside him against Croatia’s world-class midfield.
That could result in him sacrificing one of his more attacking midfielders, Dele Alli or Jesse Lingard.
Henderson is believed to be England’s only injury doubt.
Striker Jamie Vardy has recovered from the groin strain that prevented him training fully before the Sweden game last Tuesday and he insists that he is now 100 per cent fit.
Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is fine despite suffering a minor injury to his thumb while celebrating a save against the Swedes.
