With the European Championships less than a couple of weeks away, England have been dealt a devastating injury blow.
22-year-old right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold picked up an injury against Austria in the second half of the game earlier this week, and it has now been confirmed that the defender will be out for around six weeks.
The Football Association said in a statement: “A scan on Thursday confirmed the 22-year-old will be unable to play in the forthcoming tournament so has withdrawn from the England squad to return to his club for rehabilitation.”
The highly talented right-back was expected to miss out on the European Championships initially after there were rumours that Gareth Southgate will not pick him for this summer’s tournament.
However, the England manager did announce him as a part of his Euro 2020 squad, and it will be interesting to see how the Three Lions replace him now.
The Liverpool defender could have been a major asset for England this summer with his set-piece ability and long-range passing.
The youngster has picked up nine assists in all competitions for the Premier League side this past season. He could have created important chances for the likes of Harry Kane during the European Championships.
It will be interesting to see who replaces the 22-year-old in the England starting lineup during the Euros now.
The likes of Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier and Reece James have done exceedingly well for their respective clubs, and Southgate has a difficult decision ahead of him.