Chelsea right-back Reece James has been handed a two match ban by UEFA after his red card at Wembley.
UEFA chiefs ruled James used “abusive language” at Spanish referee Jesus Gil Manzano in England’s Nations League defeat to Denmark last month.
James actually got his marching orders after the final whistle when tempers flared after the game which also saw Harry Maguire get his marching orders and the Manchester United defender will serve a one game ban.
But James’ suspension – which has now been confirmed by UEFA’s disciplinary committee – means he is likely to miss out on Gareth Southgate’s squad which is to be named on Thursday.
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Because James would not be available for either Nations League game he is set to be left out of another expanded squad as England boss Southgate will use the Ireland friendly as another chance to experiment at Wembley.
Mirror Sport reported last week Phil Foden is set to return after being sent home from Iceland in disgrace in September after breaking strict coronavirus protocols.
Manchester United’s Mason Greenwood is also available again but may not be quite as certain of a recall with competition fierce and Raheem Sterling is expected to be fit.
The withdrawal of Danny Ings – the Southampton striker is out for up to six weeks through injury – may open the door for Greenwood.
But Southgate has options galore at right-back.
Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kyle Walker and Kieran Trippier are all set to be in while Ben Chilwell is likely to be recalled at left back.
If another full back is needed than Aaron Wan-Bissaka is next in line.
Kalvin Phillips also misses out through injury but Southgate has midfield options and will rest and rotate through the three games to keep clubs happy even though players do not like big squads if it means they are not involved.
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