Jarrod Bowen withdraws from England squad with injury as West Ham ace becomes seventh player to pull out

JARROD BOWEN has withdrawn from the England squad ahead of Monday night's clash with North Macedonia.

The West Ham star becomes the seventh star to pull out of Gareth Southgate's original 26-man squad, following James Maddison, Lewis Dunk, Callum Wilson, Jude Bellingham and Levi Colwill - as well Kieran Trippier earlier on Sunday.

Bowen, 26, reported for international duty on time last week.

He was an unused substitute for the 2-0 win over Malta on Friday night.

Confirming Bowen's withdrawal, Southgate said: "Unfortunately Jarrod picked up an injury, I think he felt it a bit yesterday.

"And then again at the end of training today, so we didn't really have enough time to assess it fully and make a really accurate decision before the game."

Potentially softening the blow for Hammers fans, Southgate added: "So we felt better to leave him in England so that he can get it properly assessed. I don't think it's going to be anything serious.

"But we just didn't have enough time and we wouldn't take a risk in that situation."

Bowen has been in red-hot form at club level this season.

He has so far bagged eight goals in 12 Premier League appearances.

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His performances have continued to catch Southgate's eye.

Bowen earned his first four caps during consecutive Nations League matches in 2022.

But his only cap since came in the underwhelming 1-0 friendly win over Australia last month.