Heartbreak for Tino Livramento as his World Cup dreams are shattered by a cruel calf injury. The Newcastle United full-back's participation in England's campaign had been in doubt even before this latest setback, having missed the closing weeks of the domestic season with a thigh problem. But now, with the tournament kicking off on Wednesday against Croatia, Livramento has been ruled out entirely, forcing Gareth Southgate to act swiftly and call up Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah.
The rules allow for an outfield replacement within 24 hours of kick-off if there's a serious injury or illness, and Southgate hasn't wasted any time in making the switch. Chalobah will join the squad after England face Croatia, bringing much-needed depth to a position where Reece James' fitness has been a concern all season. The Chelsea right-back has struggled with a hamstring issue that kept him out for nine games, leaving England fans anxiously watching his progress.
But while James remains a key player in the squad's plans, this latest injury blow does raise questions about England's defensive stability at right-back. Who will fill the void? Will it be Djed Spence, who can play on either flank with ease, or Ezri Konsa, a centre-back by trade but capable of deputising at right-back in an emergency?
Chalobah's inclusion is no surprise, given Thomas Tuchel's preference for tall, versatile defenders. The 26-year-old has impressed in the Premier League with Chelsea and will be hoping to make his mark on the biggest stage of them all – the World Cup.