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Fifa World Cup 2014
SportFootball

No goals - but relief at no more injuries for Hodgson

Frustrating run-out for Three Lions, who felt referee was soft on Hondurans' tackling, but Oxlade-Chamberlain's fitness is welcomed

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Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (left) and Raheem Sterling speak prior to England's match with Honduras in Miami. Photo: AFP
Reuters

Winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will be fit to play at the World Cup after damaging his medial knee ligament against Ecuador in a warm-up game, according to manager Roy Hodgson.

"I think he will make the tournament without a shadow of a doubt. That's good news," Hodgson said after his side were held to a 0-0 draw by 10-man Honduras at the weekend.

A disconsolate Oxlade-Chamberlain (pictured) had hobbled off during the 2-2 draw with Ecuador last Wednesday at the Sun Life stadium in Miami.

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England were relieved to get through their latest test ahead of the finals in Brazil without more injuries but captain Steven Gerrard was unhappy with the Honduras tackling.

I don't understand the referee when the ball is being kicked into a player's chest. That should have been a straight red card
Steven Gerrard

Striker Daniel Sturridge was lucky to escape without injury when Emilio Izaguirre booted the ball against his midriff, having just brought him down with a reckless challenge.

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"I don't understand the referee when the ball is being kicked into a player's chest," said Gerrard. "That should have been a straight red card and with 10 men it could have been different."

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