In a significant blow to the England squad ahead of the upcoming Nations League matches, Tino Livramento, Kobbie Mainoo, Cole Palmer, Marcus Rashford, and Declan Rice have all withdrawn due to injuries.

Manager Thomas Tuchel has called up Morgan Gibbs-White from Nottingham Forest and James Garner from Everton to replace the missing players. Tuchel noted that Gibbs-White, who has six international caps, was a close contender for the initial squad.

Palmer, 24, had recently been recalled after missing the World Cup but has now pulled out due to a minor injury. Tuchel emphasized that Palmer needed to prove himself to secure his place in the team. The Three Lions are set to face World Cup winners Spain at Wembley on Saturday, 26 September, before traveling to the Czech Republic on 29 September and Croatia on 3 October, with another match against the Czechs on 6 October.

Marcus Rashford and Kobbie Mainoo were assessed after being substituted during Manchester United's recent 1-1 draw against Fulham. Meanwhile, Declan Rice, who played the full match in Arsenal's 3-0 defeat to Brighton, and Livramento, limited to three substitute appearances for Newcastle this season, are also sidelined.

The England medical team, in collaboration with the clubs, has approved the withdrawals, although specific injury details remain undisclosed. Palmer's absence follows a full match for Chelsea in their 3-0 loss to Brentford. He has been pivotal for Chelsea this season, starting six of seven games, scoring four goals, and providing two assists.

Gibbs-White last appeared for England in a 3-0 win against Wales in October 2025, while Garner joins after not being selected for the 2026 World Cup. Rice, who had a demanding previous season with 69 games for Arsenal and England, played through a hamstring injury during the World Cup but has been active this season. Livramento's participation has been limited due to a knee injury, affecting his appearances for Newcastle.