Neville heads England withdrawals

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LONDON, England -- Defender Gary Neville heads a list of eight players who have pulled out of England's squad to face the Netherlands in Amsterdam on Wednesday.

Neville, the only first-team regular to withdraw, has a calf injury, while fellow- defender Ledley King has a knee problem and groin injuries have ruled out midfielders Scott Parker and Stewart Downing.

Fellow-midfielder Jermaine Jenas pulled out on Monday with a calf injury, prompting coach Steve McClaren to draft in Kieran Richardson from the Under-21s.

Winger Aaron Lennon later followed him out of the squad with a knee injury.

Striker Darren Bent misses out due to a hamstring problem and goalkeeper Chris Kirkland has been given leave of absence as he is due to become a father this week.

McClaren named an original 28-player squad on Friday.

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