England have been forced into a late defensive change ahead of their opening World Cup fixture after Tino Livramento was withdrawn from the squad because of a calf injury sustained in training. The setback occurred on Sunday, only days before England’s tournament opener against Croatia on late Wednesday night.ย
Notably, the injury has ended Livramento’s involvement in the competition before he could make an appearance, prompting the coaching staff to turn to Trevoh Chalobah as his replacement. The timing of the injury is particularly unfortunate for Livramento, whose availability had already been uncertain following a thigh problem that kept him out during the closing weeks of the domestic season. Despite concerns over his fitness, the Newcastle United defender had travelled with the squad but will now miss the remainder of the tournament.
England’s management moved swiftly to fill the vacancy within FIFA’s regulations, which permit the replacement of an outfield player suffering a serious injury or illness up to 24 hours before a team’s first match at the World Cup.
Chalobah to join the team before Croatia game
Chalobah, who has made one senior appearance for England, has been called into the squad but will not arrive in time for the Croatia encounter. The Chelsea defender is travelling to the national team’s base in Kansas City while the rest of the squad prepare to head to Dallas for their opening assignment.
In the meantime, Livramento’s international career has gathered momentum since making his senior debut under Gareth Southgate in November 2024. Since Thomas Tuchel took charge, the 23-year-old has featured on five occasions and started twice. He also played a role in England’s World Cup preparations, appearing as a half-time substitute in the victory over New Zealand before remaining among the substitutes against Costa Rica.
The latest injury concern also places additional focus on England’s options at right-back. Reece James is regarded as Tuchel’s preferred choice in the position, although questions remain over his own fitness after another campaign disrupted by injuries. The Chelsea defender missed nine matches at the end of the season because of a hamstring issue.
England still retain alternatives within the squad. Djed Spence offers versatility across both defensive flanks and has been used six times under Tuchel, while Ezri Konsa brings further experience despite primarily operating as a central defender.
Chalobah returns to the international setup having last appeared for England in June 2025, when he completed a full match against Senegal. Although naturally a centre-back, he had remained in contention under Tuchel and was included among the substitutes during several World Cup qualifying fixtures.
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