Following Tino Livramento’s injured withdrawal ahead of the Three Lions’ opening encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, England has called up defender Trevoh Chalobah to their squad.
Livramento suffered a calf injury during training on Sunday and has been ruled out of the World Cup after medical checks revealed he will be unable to continue playing.
The Football Association said on Tuesday that Chalobah had been called up as a replacement, as FIFA regulations enable teams to change an outfield player up to 24 hours before their first encounter.
The Newcastle United defender had been practicing with the squad for England’s Group-stage opener against Croatia in Dallas, but the injury destroyed his tournament dreams before a single ball was kicked.
In a statement, the FA said: “Fifa regulations allow participating teams to substitute an outfield player up to 24 hours before their first game.
“Newcastle United defender Livramento picked up a calf injury in training on Sunday afternoon. A subsequent scan and medical assessment on Monday unfortunately confirmed he could play no further part in England’s tournament.”
The loss is a major blow for the 23-year-old, who was supposed to provide defensive depth for boss Thomas Tuchel throughout the competition.
Chelsea defender Chalobah will not go to Dallas with the rest of the team. Instead, he is scheduled to report to England’s training facility in Kansas City, Missouri.
The FA stated: “Arrangements are now being made for the Chelsea defender to make the journey to the team’s basecamp in Kansas City, while the rest of the squad will head to Dallas, Texas for the Three Lions’ opening group fixture against Croatia on Wednesday.”
Chalobah’s arrival gives Tuchel another defensive option as England begin their quest for World Cup triumph.
The Three Lions begin their campaign against Croatia on Wednesday before continuing with their Group-stage matches later in the tournament.