Liverpool star Steven Gerrard has escaped being dropped for England's game against Greece despite going on a late-night drinking session, just days ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifier. Sven Goran Eriksson has accepted an apology from the midfielder who was reportedly seen with friends in Southport's Republik vodka bar up to 2am on Tuesday. This was only eleven hours before the England squad met to begin preparations.
Paul Newman, the Football Association's director of communications, told the Daily Mail: "Steven Gerrard has given a full explanation to Sven and apologised for any embarrassment caused. As far as Sven is concerned the matter is closed."
Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard was dropped from the squad for the Greece game following a drinking session with three team-mates. Asked if a more senior player would receive the same treatment if a similar situation arose, Eriksson had said: "We will see when it happens."
Meanwhile, Eriksson's injury problems intensified today when first choice keeper David Seaman was forced to pull out of the England squad for Saturday's World Cup qualifier against Greece. The England manager is already without Michael Owen, Sol Campbell, Wes Brown and Alan Smith due to injury. Nigel Martyn looks set to replace Seaman in goal at Old Trafford this weekend.
Filed by Greg McKevitt
