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Frank Gore is expected to play for the 49ers on Sunday against the Eagles, although his ankle injury will likely limit him to a reduced role in the offense.

San Francisco coach Jim Harbaugh said today that Gore, receiver Michael Crabtree (foot) and safety Donte Whitner (hip) should all be on the field Sunday in Philadelphia.

“I expect them to play,” Harbaugh said.

Fewer carries for Gore would mean more carries for running backs Kendall Hunter and Anthony Dixon. That might not be a bad thing, considering that Gore is off to a rough start, with only 148 yards on 59 carries.

The 49ers have already ruled out wide receiver Braylon Edwards and fullback Moran Norris.