England have been dealt a setback ahead of their World Cup qualifier in Latvia, with striker Ollie Watkins ruled out through injury.
The Aston Villa forward, 29, was forced off at half-time during England’s 3-0 win over Wales at Wembley on Thursday after a painful collision with the post.
Watkins, who had earlier scored England’s second goal, appeared in discomfort following the impact and was replaced at the interval.
Manager Thomas Tuchel initially suggested the injury was not serious but admitted it had left the player “very sore.”
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Subsequent medical assessments have since confirmed that Watkins will not travel with the squad to Riga.
“Ollie is OK but it was a very painful one,” Tuchel said.
“It’s nothing long-term, but not something he could play through either.”
The decision to withdraw him from Tuesday’s qualifier was taken as a precaution, with the coaching staff determined not to risk further damage ahead of a demanding domestic and international schedule.
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England have been dealt a setback ahead of their World Cup qualifier in Latvia, with striker Ollie Watkins ruled out through injury
|REUTERS
Watkins’ absence leaves Tuchel with a decision to make in attack.
Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon, who impressed after moving into a central role in the second half against Wales, could continue as an unorthodox striker in Riga. Alternatively,
England captain Harry Kane is expected to return to the starting line-up after missing the Wembley match through an ankle injury sustained with Bayern Munich.
Tuchel appeared optimistic about his captain’s recovery, saying: “Harry is progressing well.
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Ollie Watkins collided with the post during England's 3-0 victory over Wales on Thursday
|REUTERS
“We’re convinced he’ll be available in Riga, which would be a big boost for us.”
Kane trained separately from the main group on Friday but is expected to rejoin full training before the team departs for Latvia.
The qualifier represents a crucial opportunity for England to secure their place at next summer’s World Cup with two games to spare.
Victory over Latvia would guarantee progression from their group, continuing an unbeaten run under Tuchel that has seen England combine defensive solidity with renewed attacking rhythm.
For Watkins, the setback comes at a frustrating time.
The Villa striker has recently shown signs of improvement following a slow start to the season, while emerging as one of Tuchel’s preferred options in England’s fluid attacking system.
His performances have also drawn widespread praise for their energy, link-up play and pressing intelligence.
England’s depth in attacking areas means Tuchel still has multiple options available.
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England could welcome back Harry Kane for Tuesday night's match with Latvia
| ReutersMarcus Rashford could come into the side, having started to flourish for Barcelona.
The England international has become a key player for Hansi Flick, with four goal involvements from eight LaLiga matches so far.
Rashford has also netted twice in the Champions League, with both goals coming against Newcastle last month.
England will be hoping for another positive result against Latvia, having thumped them 3-0 back in March.
Reece James, who is currently injured, opened the scoring that day.
And Kane and Eberechi Eze also struck to give the Three Lions victory.