Fabio Capello has left the door open for Wayne Rooney to be named in his squad for next week’s friendly against France.
It was thought that Rooney’s week away in Portland, Oregon, would rule him out of international consideration.
But Sportsmail understands that Capello is hoping Manchester United decide to cut short Rooney’s stay at Nike HQ and play him on Saturday, bringing him into contention for the November 17 clash at Wembley.
The fact that the Italian is so reluctant to rule out Rooney shows just how important the forward remains in his plans, even though he hasn’t played his best football since last winter.
Meanwhile Andy Carroll will secure his first full international call-up if he impresses Capello this week.
The England Under-21 star has been attracting the wrong sort of publicity with his transgressions off the pitch, but Capello is used to handling headstrong characters and will pick Carroll if he impresses during Newcastle’s match against Blackburn at St James’ Park on Wednesday.
The fact that Capello has decided to watch Carroll in person suggests that the odds are now in his favour, while Arsenal teen Jack Wilshere is set to make his first start for England, probably partnering Steven Gerrard as Gareth Barry begins to fade.
And Matthew Upson’s England career could be over after the West Ham defender’s limitations were cruelly exposed against Germany during the World Cup.
Sportsmail understands that Upson isn’t even in the top six central defenders being considered by Capello.
They are Phil Jagielka, Rio Ferdinand, John Terry, Matthew Dawson, Gary Cahill and Joleon Lescott.