Carragher back for Capello

Jamie Carragher is poised to make a shock England return as Fabio Capello considers naming him in his provisional 30-man World Cup squad.

Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher retired from international football three years ago, dissatisfied at a lack of opportunities, but is ready to end his exile and put himself in line for South Africa.

Capello, who is anxiously awaiting updates on the fitness of key midfielder Gareth Barry after he damaged ankle ligaments for Manchester City, has previously tried to talk Carragher out of retirement without success. However, it is thought Carragher is now more open-minded about playing for his country again.

And while talks are still at a delicate stage, Capello, above, appears ready to name Carragher in his 30-strong party on Tuesday.

Capello will submit that squad to FIFA and then take his players to Austria for a training camp, with friendlies against Mexico at Wembley and Japan in Graz, Austria. He makes a decision on his final 23-man squad on June 1.

Carragher won the last of his 34 caps three years ago against Brazil in the first international at the new Wembley on June 1, 2007. Then England coach Steve McClaren overlooked Carragher in favour of Ledley King for the World Cup qualifier with Estonia the following week and the player announced his retirement that summer.

Capello's right-hand man, Franco Baldini, watched Carragher against Chelsea and saw him limp out of the defeat, although he is expected to shake off his ankle injury in time for tomorrow's trip to Hull.

Carragher, 32, made his 51st appearance of the season against Carlo Ancelotti's side and would take his place in a squad that has question marks over the fitness of Rio Ferdinand, King and Joleon Lescott.

Carragher's versatility would also be a boon, with further doubts over the fitness of Wes Brown, who is battling to recover from a broken metatarsal.

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