Five miss England training

Fabio Capello's new-look England squad is now looking threadbare (GETTY IMAGES)

Fabio Capello's new-look England were reduced to training with just 16 of the 23 players he originally selected as the Three Lions began preparations for Wednesday's friendly with Hungary at Wembley.

The England squad was reduced by two yesterday when Paul Robinson and Wes Brown announced their international retirements.

Those moves lent an air of chaos to the first game since the World Cup debacle when Capello's two-year tenure came under intense scrutiny.

Thus far, the Italian has opted not to draft in any replacements, although it is anticipated he could bring in someone from Stuart Pearce's under-21 squad should the need arise.

In addition to the permanent absentees, five more players were unable to play a full part in training this morning.

Chelsea duo John Terry and Ashley Cole both went for warm-down sessions after forming part of the initial group meeting.

In addition, Darren Bent (back), Glen Johnson and Gareth Barry (both ankle) also went for treatment on what have been classed as 'minor' injuries.

Happily for Capello it is not anticipated that any of the quintet will miss out on selection and are expected to train tomorrow.

The remaining members of the session included all three players who have been called up for the first time.

Fulham's Bobby Zamora will be hopeful of playing some part on Wednesday, having caught Capello's eye prior to the World Cup but then been forced to miss out due to a hamstring injury.

At 29, Zamora hardly represents a bright new future for England but the presence of Arsenal pair Jack Wilshere and Kieran Gibbs certainly do.

Despite not being regulars for the Gunners, both Wilshere and Gibbs are viewed as two of England's most talented youngsters and will at the very least benefit from the exposure they will gain this week and quite possibly make their first senior appearance at the same time.