Robbo in for injured Carson

Capello trims England squad for France friendly

Last updated: 22nd March 2008

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Paul Robinson has replaced the injured Scott Carson in the England squad to face France, while Jermain Defoe and Shaun Wright-Phillips are among the players to have been left out.

England coach Fabio Capello selected a provisional 30-man squad on Thursday for next week's friendly at the Stade de France.

Following Saturday's Premier League fixtures, Capello has whittled the travelling party down to 23, with two players missing out through injury.

Carson picked up a knock in Aston Villa's 1-0 defeat at home to Sunderland and his spot in the squad has been taken by former No.1, and Tottenham keeper, Robinson.

Wigan Athletic goalkeeper Chris Kirkland will link up with the squad to be assessed after picking up a knock in his side's 3-1 defeat at Blackburn Rovers.

Matthew Upson has also been ruled out for his country after the centre-half missed West Ham's 1-1 draw with Everton through injury.

Capello has also dropped six further players from the squad, with Villa duo Ashley Young and Gabriel Agbonlahor missing out.

Chelsea winger Wright-Phillips and Portsmouth striker Defoe, who was a late call-up for last month's game with Switzerland, have also not made the cut.

Jermaine Jenas scored the opening goal in the 2-1 victory over the Swiss, but the Tottenham midfielder has now been overlooked.

Middlesbrough defender David Wheater has also been omitted, although the Grand Slam Sunday games between Manchester United and Liverpool, and Chelsea against Arsenal, could lead to further withdrawals.

Former captain David Beckham remains in line to make his 100th appearance for England after being kept in the squad by Capello.