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Frank Lampard, who suffered a thigh injury, will not be able to represent the English national team in the upcoming European Championship.
Celebrating his 34th birthday in mid-June, the London club midfielder got injured during a regular Wednesday training session. After thorough examinations, it was revealed that he would not be able to play at least until the start of the knockout stage matches.
In his place, Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson was called up to the national team. However, since the final list of England's team players with Lampard's name was already submitted a few days ago, this change will require approval from UEFA medical staff.
"This is a big loss, especially considering that a few days ago another midfielder Gareth Barry had to leave the team," said coach Roy Hodgson. "Specialists cannot guarantee that Frank will be able to set foot on the field in any of the group stage matches, so we had to find a replacement."
He added: "We are most sorry for Lampard himself. He was in great sporting form and was eagerly awaiting the championships. This player's contribution to the qualifying tournament was huge, so the news of the injury just before the championship is very disappointing."
England will compete in Group D of the European Championship along with France, Sweden, and Ukraine.
