By Amaechi Agbo
England Three Lions’ manager, Gareth Southgate will have more concerns about his squad as the 2022 World Cup draws near with his team being ravaged by injuries.
This is coming as Chelsea’s left back, Ben Chilwell has been ruled out of the Qatar World Cup due to commence on Sunday, November 20 with injury
Chilwell’s devasting news was announced on Saturday afternoon by Chelsea after a scan.
“Following the injury sustained in our recent game against Dinamo Zagreb, Ben has undergone a scan on his hamstring.
“Results show that Ben has suffered a significant injury and the defender is unfortunately expected to miss the World Cup.
“Ben will now begin a rehabilitation programme with the club’s medical department,” the club said in a statement.
It has always been my dream to play in the World Cup – Chilwell
Meanwhile, Ben Chilwell in a message he posted on his Tweeter confirming the development, regretted that the situation has turncated his dream of playing in the World Cup but expressed determination to return to the field of play “soon”
“Following my ACL injury I worked so hard to make sure I was ready for the World Cup. It has always been a dream of mine.
“Unfortunately, this won’t be possible following my scan results. I’ll do all I can to get back playing for Chelsea ASAP. Thanks for the messages of support,” he said.
Chilwell joins fellow defender, Reece James (Chelsea) Kyle Walker and Kalvin Phillips (Manchester City) as well as Southampton full back, Kyle Walker-Peters on the World Cup absentees for England.
Chelsea right-back Reece James is a major doubt with a knee injury, while Manchester City right-back Kyle Walker is confident of making the squad despite undergoing groin surgery.
Southampton full-back Kyle Walker-Peters is set to be out until the end of the year with a hamstring injury.
Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips is also a doubt after dislocating a shoulder, although City manager Pep Guardiola is “optimistic” he will be fit in time for the tournament.
England boss Southgate favours a 3-5-2 formation, with Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw starting the most recent game against Germany as a left wing-back.
England start their World Cup against Iran on 21 November, while boss Gareth Southgate names his squad on Thursday.
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