The 21-year-old, who was heavily involved in Spain’s winning goal during Saturday’s 3-2 defeat at Wembley, has been omitted from the squad. Fellow defender Ezri Konsa also missed training in the build-up with a minor injury but has been deemed fit enough to be included in manager Thomas Tuchel’s 23-man matchday squad.
Tuchel confirmed the situation at his pre-match press conference on Monday. “Not sure yet [if they can play], they missed training because of minor issues, which are still issues,” he said. “They need to be assessed and take a decision on Tuesday morning.
“Ideally I would love to put the same team out there. I need to speak with the doctors, physios and the players themselves, see what is responsible and what’s not, then let’s see for tomorrow.”
The England manager indicated he was reluctant to make wholesale changes after the short turnaround following the Spain defeat. “It is not fair if you change so much,” Tuchel added. “You play with a new team-mate or a new style; it is sometimes healthier to have two or three changes maximum. We will be very cautious with our players. We will go step by step. Hopefully not too many changes but we will see.”
Meanwhile, 18-year-old Liverpool forward Rio Ngumoha has been included in the travelling party as England look to bounce back from their opening loss to the world and European champions.
The match takes place at the Eden Arena in Prague on Tuesday evening as Tuchel’s side aim to secure their first points of the Nations League campaign.