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Manchester City defender Micah Richards could be fit for England's crucial Euro 2008 qualifier against Croatia despite being stretchered off at Bolton.
The 19-year-old twisted his knee in Wednesday's 1-0 Carling Cup win.
But a scan on Thursday revealed the right back has bruised cartliage and has suffered no long-term damage.
A City spokesperson said: "Micah has bruised his medial meniscus cartilage in his right knee and he will continue to be assessed on a daily basis."
Richards, who had suffered an earlier knock during the match, was stretchered off in the 74th minute.
The BBC Sport columnist has been ever-present for City in the Premier League so far this season.
The news will be welcomed by England manager Steve McLaren, who will also be buoyed by Gary Neville's return for Manchester United on Thursday evening.
However, the battle for qualification for Euro 2008 from Group E is out of England's hands.
If Russia beat Israel and Andorra then they and Croatia will take the two places on offer for the finals in Austria and Swizerland.
However, if Israel draw their home game with Russia, England will qualify if they beat Croatia in their final game on 21 November.
BBC
