But as Ben Foster (knee) and Scott Carson (back) were unable to play any part in this morning’s session, it has worrying implications for the remainder of the week and next Tuesday’s second qualifier against Switzerland in Basle.

Injuries left Capello to draft in Watford’s Under-21 keeper Scott Loach and Blackburn fourth choice Frankie Fielding for the friendly win over Hungary earlier this month.

The situation is not quite that desperate yet, but Capello was forced to ask Arsenal to supply one of their youngsters (19-year-old reserve keeper James Shea) to ensure the England squad had two goalkeepers to train with at London Colney.

The Football Association suggested there were unlikely to be any call-ups today although Capello will want assurances that either Foster or Carson will be fit enough to take their place on the bench on Friday.

Given Hart had been earmarked to play in goal on Friday a potentially more significant problem was the absences of Phil Jagielka (ankle) and Peter Crouch (back).

The duo had already been rated doubtful by club bosses David Moyes and Harry Redknapp respectively and there must be a huge question mark over the pair being fit enough to face the Bulgarians, who have managed three draws but also suffered two defeats in five matches on English soil.

Jagielka was expected to start in central defence, where Capello is sorely lacking in options.

The recall of Matthew Upson does offer some experience but the West Ham man’s 21 caps is more than the other four potential centre-halves put together.

Joleon Lescott is the most experienced of the remaining quartet but he has played all his football for Manchester City this season at left back.

Gary Cahill is yet to make his Three Lions debut while Michael Dawson made his first appearance as a substitute against Hungary.