England winger Sterling will not miss World Cup through suspension

England midfielder Raheem Sterling will not be suspended for any matches at the World Cup following his sending-off against Ecuador.

The Liverpool winger was dismissed for a reckless challenge on Antonio Valencia during the 2-2 draw in Miami on Wednesday.

Manchester United man Valencia was also sent off for his reaction on Sterling, grabbing the youngster by the throat, but he will also be available for their group games in Brazil.

Both players will be suspended for their next pre-tournament friendlies instead, with England set to take on Honduras in Florida on Saturday.

Manager Roy Hodgson said: "I'm disappointed. I thought it was a fierce challenge from young Raheem, not a foul challenge. He played the ball.

"I'm disappointed with Antonio's reaction, grabbing the player. Had he not jumped up there wouldn't have been a problem but, when he does that, the referee had to deal with that and sent Raheem off.

"I'm pleased Raheem didn't react to a lot of people milling around him."

England take on Italy in their Group D opener on June 14, while Ecuador compete in Group E and face Switzerland first on June 15.

Sterling's availability will come as a relief to Hodgson, but a possible injury to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is of real concern.

Chamberlain limped off in the second half and will undergo a scan on possible ligament damage in his right leg.