Phil Jones to miss England, Nigeria match

Manchester United defender Phil Jones is expected to sit out next weekend’s England pre-World Cup friendly against Nigeria.

According to Sky Sports claiming that the 26-year-old England international will be given the day off as his partner is due to give birth in the next week.

Jones’s likely absence leaves England light of options, with only three other recognised centre-backs for manager Gareth Southgate to choose from Manchester City’s John Stones, Leicester City defender Harry Maguire and Chelsea captain Gary Cahill.

James Tarkowski has already withdrawn from the standby list as he requires a hernia operation as Three Lions boss has indicated that there will be no replacement for Burnley star.

Southgate is said to be happy with his strength in depth, as Premier League winner Kyle Walker and Tottenham Hotspurs man Eric Dier can also able to deputise in that position if required.

England host Super Eagles at Wembley on Saturday before playing Costa Rica five days later at Elland Road.