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Everton's Jordan Pickford withdraws from England squad with muscle injury

Jordan Pickford during the Premier League match between Everton and Stoke City at Goodison Park
Image: Jordan Pickford has returned to Everton for treatment

Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has withdrawn from England's World Cup Qualifiers against Malta and Slovakia due to a muscle injury.

The 23-year-old linked up with the England squad on Sunday but a muscular injury sustained during Everton's 2-0 loss at Chelsea at the weekend means he has returned to the Toffees.

England manager Gareth Southgate had already named three others goalkeepers in his squad - Joe Hart, Jack Butland and Tom Heaton - so has not named a replacement.

A Football Association statement read: "Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has left the England camp and returned to Everton.

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Gareth Southgate says he had been hoping to put Harry Maguire in one of his previous England squads

"Having reported to St George's Park on Sunday evening, the 23-year-old underwent an assessment on a muscle injury sustained playing for his club.

"After discussions between England and Everton medics, it was decided it was in the player's best interests to return to Finch Farm for further treatment."

Also See:

Watch highlights of England's World Cup Qualifier away to Malta on Sky Sports Football from 10pm on Friday.

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