Eberechi Eze Sidelined for England Friendlies with Calf Injury
In a significant blow to the England national team, Arsenal forward Eberechi Eze has been ruled out of the upcoming international friendlies due to a calf injury. The 27-year-old, who missed Arsenal's Carabao Cup final defeat to Manchester City, sustained the issue during the Champions League victory over Bayer Leverkusen last week. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta confirmed the setback, stating that Eze will undergo another scan in six to seven days to assess the damage, but he will not be fit to join the Three Lions during the international break.
Harvey Barnes Steps In as Replacement for England Squad
Newcastle United winger Harvey Barnes has been called up to replace Eze in the England squad for the friendlies against Uruguay on Friday and Japan next Tuesday, both scheduled at Wembley Stadium. Barnes, 28, has had an impressive season with Newcastle, scoring 14 goals in 49 appearances across all competitions, including five in the Premier League and six in the Champions League. He has one cap for England, earned in a 2020 friendly against Wales, and had previously been linked with a switch to represent Scotland through his grandparents. However, Scotland boss Steve Clarke confirmed last month that Barnes has chosen to focus on his England career, putting an end to speculation about an international allegiance change.
Impact on World Cup Selection and Other Squad News
Eze's injury comes at a critical time as he competes with a crowded field of forwards for a spot in England's World Cup squad. Players like Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham, and others are vying for positions, making this setback a potential hurdle in his selection hopes. Meanwhile, Barnes will aim to capitalize on this opportunity to add to his single cap and make a case for inclusion in the World Cup roster. In additional injury news, Bayer Leverkusen defender Jarell Quansah will also miss the England friendlies due to a muscle injury in his left thigh, as confirmed by his club. This further depletes England's options ahead of the matches, highlighting the challenges faced by manager Thomas Tuchel in preparing his team for the upcoming fixtures.
