England squad update: Everton defender Phil Jagielka to miss World Cup qualifers
Veteran withdraws from Three Lions squad for Malta and Slovenia clashes due to a thigh strain
PHIL JAGIELKA has withdrawn from the England squad due to a thigh injury.
The 34-year-old defender will return to his club and miss the upcoming qualifiers.
Everton veteran Jagielka's withdrawal was confirmed by the Football Association on Friday, although he is expected to be fit for the Toffees' Premier League match at Manchester City next week.
He will not be available for the clash with Malta at Wembley on Saturday or the trip to Slovenia on Tuesday.
Gareth Southgate still has a healthy option of centre-halves available as the Three Lions look to take another step towards the World Cup 2018.
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Two out of Chelsea's Gary Cahill, Manchester United's Chris Smalling and City's John Stones are expected to start against the Maltese.
The former Middlesbrough boss can also call upon Burnley's Michael Keane.
The 23-year-old received his first England call-up earlier this week.
Southgate has decided to make do for the time being and declined the option to call up a replacement for Jagielka.
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