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Football

19th Jun 2018

England confirm Dele Alli has sustained a thigh injury

He was replaced by Loftus-Cheek with ten minutes to go

Reuben Pinder

He was substituted off for Ruben Loftus-Cheek

England began their World Cup campaign with a win last night as Harry Kane scored a winner at the death.

Gareth Southgate’s side were aggressive from the first whistle, pressing in packs and moving the ball quickly. They took an early lead through Kane but Tunisia levelled the scoring from the penalty spot. England then repeatedly knocked on the door but could not break through and it seemed as though they would have to settle for a point before Kane’s late heroics.

A very encouraging performance was tainted slightly by the news of Dele Alli sustaining an injury. Alli came off for Loftus-Cheek with ten minutes to go after it became clear he had picked up a knock.

England have since announced confirmation that Alli picked up a thigh strain during the Tunisia game. The full extent of the damage is unknown, and he will be monitored over the coming days before Southgate makes a decision on whether he will play against Panama on Sunday.

If Alli is not fit enough to play the second group game, Ruben Loftus-Cheek is likely to replace him in one of the two advanced midfield positions in front of Jordan Henderson.