Chelsea have confirmed that left-back Ben Chilwell will miss the World Cup due to a hamstring injury.
After suffering the injury in the Blues’ Champions League victory over Dinamo Zagreb on Wednesday, the 17-cap England international underwent a scan.
Chilwell, 25, will now start his rehabilitation phase before making a comeback to the first team.
According to a club statement, Ben had a hamstring scan after suffering an injury during a recent match against Dinamo Zagreb.
The statement read: “Following the injury sustained in our recent game against Dinamo Zagreb, Ben has undergone a scan o his hamstring.
“Results show that Ben has suffered a significant injury and the defender is unfortunately expected to miss the World Cup.
“Ben will now begin a rehabilitation programme with the club’s medical department.”
Chilwell reacted to the news on social media, saying: “Following my ACL injury I worked so hard to make sure I was ready for the World Cup.
“It has always been a dream of mine. Unfortunately, this won’t be possible following my scan results.
“It’s very difficult to take at the moment but I believe everything happens for a reason.
“I will do all I can to get back playing for Chelsea as soon as possible. Thank you for the messages of support.”
Chilwell joins teammate Reece James in missing out, giving Three Lions manager Southgate less defensive depth as he prepares to name his 26-man World Cup roster on Thursday.
On November 21, before matches against the United States and Wales, England plays its opening match of the tournament against Iran.
When the English domestic season resumes after the Qatar championship, Chelsea’s No. 25 might also be ineligible for a number of Premier League games.
Prior to tomorrow’s London derby matchup against league leaders Arsenal, Graham Potter’s team is currently sixth in the standings.
