England called a defender Trevoh Chalobah theirs 2026 FIFA World Cup team after withdrawing from injury Tino Livramento on the eve of the first match of the Three Lions in the tournament.
Livramento suffered a calf injury during training on Sunday and was ruled out of the competition after medical tests confirmed he would not be able to play again at the World Cup.
The Football Association announced on Tuesday that Chalobah had been selected as a substitute, with FIFA regulations allowing teams to substitute an outfield player up to 24 hours before the first leg.
Livramento excluded due to injury
The Newcastle United defender was training with the squad for England’s opening group game against Croatia in Dallas, but injury snuffed out his tournament hopes before he kicked a ball.
In a statement, the FA said: “Fifa regulations allow participating teams to substitute an outfield player up to 24 hours before the first match.
“Newcastle United defender Livramento sustained a calf injury in training on Sunday afternoon. A subsequent scan and medical assessment on Monday unfortunately confirmed that he is no longer fit to play in the English tournament.”
The setback is a significant blow for the 23-year-old, who was expected to provide defensive depth for manager Thomas Tuchel during the competition.
Chalobah joined the England camp
Chelsea defender Chalobah will not travel directly to Dallas with the rest of the squad. Instead, it was arranged that he report to England’s training base in Kansas City, Missouri.
The FA added: “Arrangements are now being made for the Chelsea defender to go to the team’s base camp in Kansas City, while the rest of the squad will travel to Dallas, Texas, for the Three Lions’ Group A match against Croatia on Wednesday.”
Chalobah’s inclusion gives Tuchel an extra defensive option as England begin their quest for World Cup glory.
The Three Lions open their campaign against Croatia on Wednesday before continuing with group stage matches later in the tournament.
