Worrying news for Liverpool as Harvey Elliott one of two England U21 withdrawals
Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott and Spurs’ Ryan Sessegnon have pulled out of the England Under-21 squad to face Kosovo.
The duo have returned to their clubs ahead of Tuesday’s opening Euro 2023 qualifying match in Milton Keynes.
Aston Villa midfielder Aaron Ramsey has now been called up from the Under-19s.
A Football Association statement read: “Liverpool player Elliott reported for international duty with an injury sustained during his side’s recent draw against Chelsea.
“Following further assessment. It has been decided that the 18-year-old is unlikely to play any part in the forthcoming fixture against Kosovo so has returned to his club.
“Tottenham Hotspur player Sessegnon has also returned to his club for further assessment after picking up a knock in training.”
The news of Elliott’s withdrawal will come as a blow to Liverpool.
Elliott had started each of the last two games for Liverpool and came off the bench on opening day against Norwich.
According to The Athletic his withdrawal is “only a precautionary measure”. And the club will monitor him and hope he will be able to feature at Leeds.
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Minamino injury
The youngster joins Roberto Firmino and Takumi Minamino on the injury list. Minamino was also injured while on international duty.
The Japan forward he attacker, who had linked up with his national side for World Cup Qualifiers with Oman and China, was also released after picking up an unspecified injury.
The Atheltic refer to Minamino’s injury as a “muscle problem” and say it is more of a concern than Elliott’s injury.
Naby Keita could also be doubt to face Leeds on Sunday. It’s unknown whether he will be permitted to leave Guinea in time for the journey to Elland Road.
Meanwhile, Tuesday’s England Under-21 game is Lee Carsley’s first match in charge. Friday’s friendly in Romania was called off just hours before the Young Lions were due to travel to Bucharest.
Two Covid-19 tests from the squad and staff came back positive on Thursday. So a decision was made to cancel the match.
READ MORE: Liverpool spokesman confirms Naby Keita safety after attempted coup in Guinea
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