LONDON, March 28 - England manager Thomas Tuchel faces major lineup changes ahead of Tuesday’s friendly with Japan at Wembley Stadium after eight players departed the national team camp on Saturday due to injuries and health concerns.
Among those leaving were goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, defender Fikayo Tomori, and forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin. Defender John Stones returned to Manchester City following an injury sustained before Friday's 1-1 draw with Uruguay.
Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace and Noni Madueke of Arsenal also exited with injuries. Madueke’s teammates Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka have since returned to Arsenal.
The squad adjustments come as FIFA expands World Cup squad sizes to 26 players for the upcoming tournament in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. England opens Group L against Croatia on June 17 in Arlington, Texas.