England to assess Danny Welbeck injury on Wednesday

Danny Welbeck's fitness status for England's World Cup opener against Italy is expected to be determined on Wednesday after he suffered an injury worry in training.

The Manchester United striker is believed to have picked up a thigh strain during a practice session at England's Urca military base headquarters on Tuesday.

The Three Lions are reportedly anxious that Welbeck, who has been a favourite of Roy Hodgson's, may not be available to face the Italians in Manaus on Saturday, with a full assessment to confirm the extent of the damage anticipated this afternoon.

Raheem Sterling and Ross Barkley would be possible contenders to replace the 23-year-old in an attacking midfield role, with Sterling being tipped to start anyway after impressive displays in training.

Welbeck has scored eight goals in 20 appearances during Hodgson's tenure as England manager.