Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has withdrawn from the England squad due to injury.
The Blues’ £30 million summer arrival was handed a senior call-up by Gareth Southgate for the national side’s World Cup qualifiers with Malta and Slovakia.
But a muscle injury sustained during last weekend’s 2-0 defeat to Chelsea has ended hopes of Pickford potentially earning his first international cap.
An FA statement said: “Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has left the England camp and returned to Everton.
“Having reported to St. George’s Park on Sunday evening, the 23-year-old underwent an assessment on a muscle injury sustained playing for his club.
“After discussions between England and Everton medics, it was decided it was in the player’s best interests to return to Finch Farm for further treatment.
“Gareth Southgate will now prepare for the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Malta and Slovakia with the remaining three goalkeepers in his 27-man squad.”