Gareth Barry will play no part in England's opening game in Rustenburg

The Manchester City midfielder who remained a doubt for Fabio Capello's 23-man squad had made a quicker than expected recovery from the ankle injury he suffered last month.

After being handed a deadline of June 13, the day after the USA game, to begin full training, the 29 year-old will now start playing a major part in all sessions from Tuesday.

However, England coach Capello has already declared that Barry was unlikely to face the USA for fear of jeopardising his return to full fitness and it seems the Italian has not changed his mind.

"I've been told I'm not playing against USA to give me more time," Barry said. "I'll be back in full training with the team from tomorrow."

In Barry's absence, Capello looks likely to field Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard in central midfield on Saturday, with Joe Cole occupying the left-sided berth.

The trio all started this afternoon's 3-0 friendly match win against the Platinum Stars, with Cole remaining on the pitch after half-time, when Wayne Rooney and Emile Heskey made their entrance.