Southampton’s Ryan Bertrand withdraws from England squad

Ryan Bertrand has withdrawn from the England squad for friendlies against the Netherlands and Italy due to a back problem, the FA has announced.

Bertrand helped Southampton to a 2-0 FA Cup quarter-final victory against Wigan on Sunday and has now returned to the club as a precautionary measure.

An FA statement read: “Southampton defender Ryan Bertrand has returned to his club for further assessment on a back issue.

“Bertrand’s withdrawal is a precautionary measure and he will play no part in the forthcoming fixtures against the Netherlands and Italy.”

Ashley Young and Danny Rose remain left-back options in the England squad.

Manchester United defender Luke Shaw is among the options to replace Bertrand if Gareth Southgate decides to call up an additional player.