England defender Ledley King has made a return to training following his groin strain but Aaron Lennon sat out Thursday morning’s session as he has a minor ankle problem.

Spurs ace King has not been able to play in England’s last two matches in the World Cup after he suffered the injury early on in the opening 1-1 draw against USA but was back on the field on Thursday, although his session was restricted to non-contact work.

It is thought the centre-back will not be fit for England’s last 16 encounter against Germany on Sunday afternoon (Germany 9/5, England 17/10 to win in 90 minutes) but he could be available for selection if the Three Lions make it through to the quarter-finals with a potential date against Argentina (9/2 second favourites to win the World Cup) or Mexico on the horizon.

Lennon, however, did not take part at all as he is still suffering from an ankle injury but should be available for Sunday while Michael Carrick is also carrying a similar minor injury.

The rest of the England players, including Wayne Rooney, who had picked up an ankle knock in the Slovenia win, all went through a gym session as Fabio Capello hopes for no more injury setbacks ahead of the huge last-16 game.