England have been dealt a significant blow ahead of their World Cup opener after defender Tino Livramento was ruled out of the tournament due to injury.
The Newcastle United full-back has been withdrawn from the 26-man squad selected by manager Thomas Tuchel just a day before England’s first group-stage match after suffering a muscle injury described as a low-grade tear.
Chelsea FC defender Trevoh Chalobah has been called up as his replacement. FIFA rules permit squads to replace injured players up to 24 hours before their opening group match, provided the injury is deemed serious.
Livramento, 23, had been regularly involved in England’s plans for 2026, featuring in nearly all of the national team’s matches this year. His ability to play on both sides of the defence made him a key tactical option for Tuchel.
Chalobah, 26, has one senior England appearance, which came in a 3-1 loss to Senegal in June 2025. He was also part of subsequent England squads later that year but did not feature.
The Chelsea defender offers similar versatility, having played both at right-back and in midfield during his career.
Livramento’s setback adds to a long list of injury issues, having missed 36 matches in the 2025–26 season due to thigh, knee and hamstring problems and also missing the final five games of the campaign.
With Livramento unavailable, Reece James is expected to start at right-back, while Nico O’Reilly is being considered for the left-back role. Dan Burn, Jarell Quansah and Djed Spence remain available as defensive options.
England begin their World Cup campaign hoping to end their long wait for a major tournament title, but will now do so without one of their key defensive players.