Jonathan Woodgate might have been surprised to be left out of the England squad (complete squad here) after McClaren dropped a few hints in his direction earlier this week. But though Woodgate deserves a recall on current form, his failure to make the squad is a blessing in disguise.

With all his recent injury troubles, it will do the lad good to rest up for a week, bubble-wrap those delicate thigh muscles, then carry on performing when the Premiership resumes.