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Lescott into England squad, Oxlade withdraws

ESPN staff
August 13, 2012
Joleon Lescott has been added to the England squad © PA Photos
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Arsenal winger Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has been forced to withdraw from the England squad to face Italy due to an ankle injury.

The youngster picked up a slight knock during Arsenal's friendly against Cologne in Germany on Sunday, and has opted to withdraw as a precautionary measure.

Oxlade-Chamberlain joins Joe Hart and Daniel Sturridge on the sidelines but will not be replaced for the midweek game, which will see coach Roy Hodgson evaluate some of his options as he looks to build for the Three Lions' future.

Meanwhile, Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott has been added to Hodgson's squad - although the FA has yet to formally confirm the news.

"Was happy to be woken up by my phone this morning, phone call to say I've been called up to the England squad for Wednesday's game," Lescott said on Twitter.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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