LONDON (Reuters) - Everton defender Joleon Lescott has been called into England's squad for the Euro 2008 qualifiers against Israel and Russia, the FA said yesterday.

England have been hit hard by injuries to key players for the home fixtures and Lescott's promotion to the senior squad follows an injury to Portsmouth's Sol Campbell.

Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp said on Sunday the central defender had no chance of being fit for England's clash with Israel at Wembley on Saturday.

England coach Steve McClaren has also lost midfielders Frank Lampard, David Beckham and Kieron Dyer while striker Wayne Rooney is recovering from a broken foot.

Lescott, who came on as a substitute in a B international against Albania in May, has never been capped at senior level.

"Joleon has been looking very solid for Everton this season, and has also scored a couple of goals," McClaren told the FA's web-site (www.thefa.com).

"His versatility also means he is a good option as he can play in the middle of the defence or at full-back."