Fabio Capello has indicated he is unlikely to deploy Steven Gerrard as a holding midfielder if Gareth Barry fails to recover from an ankle injury for the World Cup (15/2 Gerrard – Top England Goalscorer).

Manchester City midfielder Barry has until June 1 when Capello names his final cut to prove he is match fit and ready for the demands of tournament football.

The Italian has suggested he will bend his own rule of only considering match-fit players in his 23-man squad for the 29-year-old and his options appear limited if Barry’s worst fears are confirmed.

The England coach failed in his request for 35-year-old Paul Scholes to reconsider his decision to retire and Manchester United team-mate Owen Hargreaves needs games under his belt.

What is apparent is that the 63-year-old does not want to dilute the attacking threat of Gerrard by asking him to drop back.

“Steven is really dangerous when he gets close to the box,” Capello added.

“If he has to play in the same position as the other midfielders he is good, but he is too far from the box.

“He has to get between two lines, the back four and the midfield. That is where you go to shoot.

“I am lucky because his performance level is always high, but while I like to go forward you always need a holding player in front of the back four.”

Capello has confirmed Tottenham defender Ledley King will not be involved in the international friendly against Japan at Wembley on Sunday (15/2 Japan 7/2 draw 2/7 England – match betting).