Neville injury just a 'niggle'

Steve McClaren is confident Gary Neville's groin injury is not serious.

Steve McClaren is confident Gary Neville's groin injury is not serious even though the England right back was forced to miss training again on Friday.

The Manchester United captain suffered the injury during the 3-1 victory against Hungary on Tuesday and, after missing the 2002 finals with a broken foot, he is determined to avoid a second heartbreaking injury.

Every precaution is being taken with Neville and McClaren is keen to stress that the problem should clear up soon.

"It's just a little niggle," explained McClaren to Sky Sports News. "We're hoping a few days' rest and work in the gym will clear it up, ready to train on Monday."

The England assistant coach, who will replace Sven Goran Eriksson after the finals in Germany, believes morale is incredibly high amongst the squad.

"It just shows the spirit in the camp," he said of Peter Crouch's celebrations and the mood in Manchester. "Crouchy's had a bit of ribbing over the past few days since the celebration. We're delighted with his goal and his celebrations were interesting!

"[Special guest] Prince William appreciated it. We had a good day with him.

"The last two days have been recovery, this morning there is more work towards the game tomorrow.

"We'll just cover aspects of the warm-up and some tactical work but it's mainly about the two games this week.

"We'll do set-pieces and finish with a nice 'oldies' versus 'youngies' game - there's quite a bit of money on it!"