Butt will nevertheless miss tomorrow’s game in Lisbon and he has been joined on the sidelines by fellow midfielder, Hargreaves, who has been suffering from a stomach upset.

Eriksson told BBC Radio 5 Live: “I have just spoken to Owen Hargreaves and, although he’s better, he’s not looking very well.

“So he will almost for sure not be available for the Croatia game.

“He has had a stomach problem for more than 48 hours and has not eaten in that time, so it is very difficult for him.

“It’s a bit of a blow for us as he’s a very useful player to have, especially if you want to defend a result.

“He can play anywhere in midfield and when he comes on, he is always ready, he’s aggressive and can keep the ball.”

Hargreaves’ absence should nevertheless not change England’s starting line-up as they look to confirm their place in the quarter-finals.

Although Paul Scholes, who had recovered from an ankle injury to face Switzerland, missed training yesterday as he was still “sore”, he was expected to be back in action this evening.

There was also brighter news emanating from the England camp about Butt’s prospects after initial forecasts had ruled him out of the entire tournament.

Eriksson revealed: “If we reach the semi-finals, then maybe he could be ready again. We will have to see.”