Ankle injury rules Gomez out of England squad to host Italy

Joe Gomez will play no part in England’s friendly with Italy on Tuesday after an ankle problem forced his withdrawal from Gareth Southgate’s squad.

The 20-year-old defender lasted just 10 minutes in Amsterdam on Friday before succumbing to injury, with Harry Maguire replacing him.

While Jack Wilshere had been forced to leave the squad due to injury, there was hope Gomez would be able to feature against the Azzurri at Wembley.

However, the damage has been deemed serious enough to require further assessment by Liverpool’s medical team as they head into a crucial stage of the season both domestically and in the Champions League.

Friday’s clash was Gomez’s third cap, the youngster having impressed over his 29 Liverpool appearances in all competitions this season.

It’s been confirmed that @J_Gomez97 has returned to @LFC for further assessment on the injury he picked up against the Netherlands.

The #ThreeLions squad for Tuesday’s game against Italy has been reduced to  players. pic.twitter.com/zPeZOk4eF5

— England (@England) March 25, 2018