Fabian Delph temporarily leaves England camp for birth of child

"No concern" over John Stones for Colombia, says Gareth Southgate

By James Dale

Image: Fabian Delph started for England against Belgium on Thursday

Fabian Delph has temporarily left England's World Cup camp in Russia ahead of his wife giving birth.

After starting Thursday's 1-0 defeat to Belgium, the Manchester City midfielder flew home to be with his partner Natalie.

The Football Association has confirmed that Delph left straight from Kaliningrad, with their third child due on Saturday.

Image: John Stones is not a doubt for England's game against Belgium

Meanwhile, England defender John Stones is not considered a doubt for their last-16 tie against Colombia on Tuesday, despite being substituted at half-time against Belgium.

Gareth Southgate said he has "no concerns" over Stones' fitness and it was always in his plan to replace the Manchester City centre-back with Harry Maguire at the break.

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Stones sat on the substitutes bench ice on his calf during the second half.

He has started all three of England's World Cup fixtures so far and scored twice in the 6-1 win over Panama.

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England hold their next full training session in Zelenogorsk on Saturday morning.

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