Thursday 18 June 2015 13:36, UK
West Brom striker Saido Berahino has withdrawn from the England U21 squad for the European Championship due to a knee injury.
He will miss the tournament in the Czech Republic after suffering the problem during training ahead of England’s opening game against Portugal on Thursday - although Sky sources understand the injury is not serious.
Berahino becomes the second player in as many days to be ruled out of the Portugal game after John Stones was ruled out after suffering concussion during training, although the Everton defender is expected to be available later in the tournament.
Wolves' Benik Afobe has been called up to replace Berahino ahead of England's second group game against Sweden on June 21 and Italy three days later.
"It’s a great personal disappointment for Saido," England U21 manager Gareth Southgate told the FA's official website.
“He’s very conscious of it not affecting the team and we’re personally disappointed for him because he’s been with us from the very first game, scored our first goal and has been a huge part of the reason why we’re here.
"It’s a great shame he won’t be able to finish the job.
“For us, it’s important that we move on and the rest of the group respond and react in the right way as they have done throughout the competition.”
West Brom thanked the FA for releasing Berahino from the squad and will now their turn their attentions to trying to get him back ready for the start of the new Premier League season.
“We are hopeful the injury is not too serious," Baggies' Performance Director Dr Mark Gillett told the club's official website.
“We are grateful to the FA for putting the player’s welfare first, even though it will obviously be disappointing for Saido to miss out on the tournament.
“Now the first phase is to assess fully what the problem is and then we can sort out a programme for his recovery and rehabilitation.”
Afobe earned his call-up after a successful season at Molineux that saw him score 13 goals in 21 appearances - including a goal on his debut in the 2-0 win over Blackpool - following his move from Arsenal in January.
He was also on target 19 times in 30 matches while on loan at MK Dons earlier in the campaign to play his part in their promotion from Sky Bet League One.
He has previously represented England at U16, U17, U19 and U21 level, alongside many of the squad in Czech Republic.
“I’ve kept in contact with him in case something like this happened,” added Southgate. “He’s always been super positive about being involved and he’s excited by it.
“He’s had an excellent season with MK Dons and Wolves this season and he deserves the opportunity. He knows most of the group already from playing in other age groups so we’re looking forward to seeing him."
