Why Bukayo Saka has pulled out of England squad - and Harry Kane could follow

Bukayo Saka has left the England camp in another blow to Gareth Southgate ’s plans.

Arsenal star Saka did not take part in full training on Wednesday and has returned to his club for further treatment before the friendlies with Brazil and Belgium.

The Football Association said in a statement: “ Bukayo Saka has left the England camp and returned to his club for continued rehabilitation. The Arsenal forward reported to St. George's Park with an injury and has been unable to participate in training.

"No further replacements are planned as a 25-man England squad continue their preparation for the forthcoming internationals with Brazil and Belgium."

It is believed it has been done as a precaution for Saka who has been managing an Achilles issue. No-one will replace Saka in the 25 man squad.

It is a setback for England boss Southgate who is likely to be without Harry Kane for the Brazil game on Saturday as the Bayern Munich star hopes to be ready for Belgium next Tuesday.

Southgate had hoped to use Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham, Kane and Saka in an attack-minded front line in these games. But those plans have been hit by injury while Jordan Henderson and Cole Palmer have also sat out sessions this week.

Saka will be a concern for Arsenal as they chase down the Premier League title and Champions League with their next game at Manchester City on Sunday week. The Gunners academy graduate may not be the only high-profile withdrawal Southgate has to contend with.

Captain Harry Kane has arrived carrying an ankle injury after he collided with a goalpost while playing for club side Bayern Munich on Saturday. The German giants released a statement of their own regarding their leading goalscorer.

"Harry Kane injured his left ankle in FC Bayern’s 5-2 win at Darmstadt. The striker has still travelled to international duty with England and will be treated by the team doctors there, in close consultation with the FC Bayern medical department."

Kane has missed parts of training this week already, undergoing an individual indoors programme on Wednesday rather than the full contact session with the rest of his team-mates.