Tergat was scheduled to face the reigning Olympic and world marathon champions Stefano Baldini of Italy and Jaouad Gharib from Morocco.

BBC: SPORT | Athletics | Berhanu to replace absent Tergat

The 63-year-old Italian, who has been recovering from knee surgery in Switzerland, has been monitoring the fall-out closely and regularly spoken to his trusted lieutenant Franco Baldini.

BBC: John Terry stripped of England captaincy by Capello

However, reports in several papers suggest that Capello and England's general manager, Franco Baldini have learnt that Carragher's position has softened and are keen to take him to this summer's tournament.

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With doubts over the fitness of Rio Ferdinand, and Wes Brown and Joleon Lescott ruled out through injury, Capello and assistant Franco Baldini managed to persuade Carragher into reversing his decision.

BBC: Fabio Capello makes surprise England World Cup choices

Baldini, England's general manager, held in-depth talks with four key Football Association board members on Monday - chairman Lord Triesman, chief executive Ian Watmore, director of communications Adrian Bevington and head of development Trevor Brooking.

BBC: John Terry stripped of England captaincy by Capello

The defender was visibly distraught by the injury to Ramsey, who was stretchered off and taken to hospital in an ambulance, and Capello delayed the announcement of the squad by 40 minutes to have a final discussion with his assistant Franco Baldini about Shawcross' inclusion in light of events at the Britannia Stadium.

BBC: Ryan Shawcross named in England squad for Egypt match