England loses another senior and first-choice midfielder on Thursday when Frank Lampard has been ruled out of Euro 2012 due to a thigh injury.

This huge blow followed Gareth Barry's injury-hit quit after the Manchester City midfielder was confirmed a muscle tear in his lower abdomen earlier this week.

Lampard, who helped Chelsea win the club's first-ever champions league crown, pulled his thigh in training on Wednesday and was examined today by the England medical staff following a scan.

The 33-year-old veteran has already been selected in the final 23-man squad of England. He is regarded to pair with Scott Parker as two holding midfielders of England if in their familiar 4-2-3-1 formation.

But now, Lampard, one of the world's best midfielders in the past decade, may say goodbye to his last chance to play for England in a big tournament finals.

"It's a huge blow for the team, especially coming after the loss of another senior player in Gareth Barry," said England Manager Roy Hodgson.

"The fact that the doctor cannot guarantee Frank could take part in any of the group matches means we have to replace him in the central midfield area."

Lampard and Barry's absences mean that there are only two experienced central midfielders left for the Three Lions: Steven Gerrard and Parker.

According to the FA, Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson will be called into the squad - subject to agreement from UEFA's medical team.

Hodgson showed his regrets to Lampard, one of the England's most experienced players, with 90 caps.

"Apart from it being a huge blow to me and the team, I'm especially disappointed for Frank himself. He has been in very good form and was looking forward to the tournament.

"He made a huge contribution towards us qualifying for the Euros so it is cruel to be forced out through injury just before the tournament."

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