Burnley have announced James Tarkowski has withdrawn from the stand-by list for England’s 2018 World Cup campaign to undergo a hernia operation.
Tarkowski narrowly missed out on a spot in Gareth Southgate’s 23-man squad but was named as a first reserve in case any defenders picked up an injury in the build up to next month’s tournament.
The 25-year-old was in sublime form for Burnley this season but the Clarets have now confirmed the centre-back needs to surgery to resolve an ongoing groin issue.
“James Tarkowski has withdrawn from England’s World Cup preparation camp at St. George’s Park to undergo a hernia operation,” a statement read on the club’s official website.
“The Clarets defender had been training with the Three Lions since last Monday, having been named on England manager Gareth Southgate’s five-man stand-by list.
“However, after managing an ongoing groin issue and, following assessment in recent days, it has been decided that the 28-year-old requires surgery instead.
“Tarkowski is expected to be fit for the Clarets’ return to pre-season training in early July.”
It has also been confirmed that Southgate has opted against calling up another defender to replace Tarkowski, serving as another blow for Manchester United defender Chris Smalling.
Southgate has made it clear Smalling does not have a future for England while he is in charge of the Three Lions, despite the fact the 28-year-old finished the season well for United.
Only Nicolas Otamendi (5) won more WhoScored Man of the Match awards than Tarkowski (4) in the Premier League this season of all defenders.
