O'Reilly ruled out as Tuchel names England squad for Czechia Nations League trip

Nico O’Reilly has been ruled out of England’s UEFA Nations League fixture against Czechia in Prague on Tuesday, with Thomas Tuchel confirming the Manchester City left-back sustained a minor injury following Saturday’s 3-2 home defeat to Spain. Liverpool forward Rio Ngumoha, who missed the Spain game, has been called into the matchday squad as his replacement.

O’Reilly, 21, had started the full 90 minutes against Spain and had established himself as Tuchel’s first-choice left-back. The 21-year-old did travel to Prague with the squad but will play no part in the game. Lewis Hall and Myles Lewis-Skelly are the options available to Tuchel to fill the position.

Ezri Konsa, who also missed Monday’s training session, has been included in the squad and is expected to retain his place at centre-back. The 28-year-old Arsenal defender — who joined from Aston Villa in a deal worth up to £55 million during the summer — has been a consistent presence under Tuchel, featuring in every game at the World Cup.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Tuchel acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding both players before Monday’s session. “It was because of minor issues,” he said. “But there are still issues.” He added that final fitness checks would be conducted on Tuesday morning, with medical staff having the final say: “If the doctors and physios give thumbs up then we’re good to go. One day longer would really make a difference.”

Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham are both expected to start as England look to recover from their opening defeat and get their Nations League group campaign moving. Tuchel, however, pushed back on suggestions that Tuesday’s match is a must-win. “It is a bit early in the group for ‘must-win’,” he said. “We respect the quality of the opposition. The match tomorrow has the highest priority.”

England will then travel to Croatia on Saturday for their third group fixture before hosting Czechia at Wembley the following Tuesday.