Reece James has confirmed on Wednesday that he will not be part of Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the World Cup in Qatar later this month because of a knee injury.
The Chelsea defender said on social media that he is “devastated” to be missing the finals, which kick-off on November 20.
The 22-year-old right-back picked up the injury playing against AC Milan in the Champions League on October 11. Chelsea had said he faced at least an eight-week lay-off and James had been hopeful of recovering in time for the World Cup.
The defender began jogging this week but it is believed that Southgate felt it was too big a risk to name him in his 26-man squad, which will be announced on Thursday.
He had started the Three Lions’ last four matches and was a considered certainty for Southgate’s starting XI in Qatar until he suffered the injury.
James wrote on Twitter on Wednesday: “Devastated. The minute I injured my knee, I knew the turnaround to make the World Cup would be tight, but I always felt it was possible.
“I’ve worked harder than I ever thought I could to give myself the best chance of going and truly believed I could help the team.
“I appreciate there was risk on both sides but it was one I was willing to take. Good luck to the boys. I’ll be back soon. Stay safe and sending love.”
