Nico O’Reilly earns first England call-up after James injury

Manchester City defender Nico O’Reilly was added to England’s senior squad on Monday as a late replacement for Chelsea captain Reece James, who withdrew after sustaining an injury playing for his club on Saturday. O’Reilly, 20, moves up from the Under-21s and will join the squad ahead of Thursday’s friendly with Wales at Wembley and next Tuesday’s World Cup qualifier against Latvia in Riga.

The Football Association said James was examined by England medical staff following Chelsea’s 2-1 win over Liverpool and has been ruled out of England’s October internationals. James played the full 90 minutes at Stamford Bridge, starting at right back and finishing the match at centre back as Chelsea coped with a number of defensive absences. The FA did not disclose the precise nature or severity of the injury.

O’Reilly has featured regularly for Manchester City this season, having started the club’s last seven games and made nine appearances in all competitions. A midfielder by background, he has been used primarily at left back for Pep Guardiola’s side and has represented England at youth levels from Under-15 through Under-20. The FA said, "Manchester City's Nico O’Reilly has received his...