Brief

England drop Nico O’Reilly, Lewis Hall in line‑up for Croatia clash

The FA confirmed O'Reilly’s exit and hinted at Hall’s inclusion ahead of the Rijeka fixture.

By Felo News Desk · Published Tue, 06 Oct 2026 23:30:11 GMT

The Football Association announced that 21‑year‑old Nico O’Reilly has left the England squad and will miss the remaining Nations League games, including the 3 October match against Croatia in Rijeka.

O’Reilly returned to Manchester City for medical tests on Thursday and will not travel to Croatia or the subsequent home game against the Czech Republic. The FA did not name a replacement, increasing the chance that Newcastle United’s Lewis Hall will start at left‑back – his second England start after featuring in Prague.

Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is set to reclaim the No 1 spot from James Trafford, and Thomas Tuchel will detail fitness updates in his Friday press conference at 13:30 BST. England’s predicted 4‑2‑3‑1 includes Pickford; Alexander‑Arnold, Konsa, Branthwaite, Hall; Anderson, Scott; Saka, Bellingham, Gordon; and Kane.

For the full revised XI see England name starting XI for Croatia Nations League clash.

Key facts

Nico O'Reilly has left the England squad and will miss the Croatia and Czech Republic Nations League games. (standard.co.uk)
Lewis Hall is likely to start at left‑back for England against Croatia. (standard.co.uk)
Jordan Pickford will replace James Trafford as England's goalkeeper for the Croatia match. (standard.co.uk)
England's match against Croatia is scheduled for 5 pm BST on 3 October 2026 at Stadion HNK Rijeka. (standard.co.uk)