James Hill earns first England call-up as Ezri Konsa misses Croatia

James Hill has earned his first senior England call-up after Ezri Konsa was ruled out of Thursday’s Nations League match against Croatia.

The Bournemouth defender, 24, joins Thomas Tuchel’s squad following an impressive run at club level, with the Cherries entering the international break on eight consecutive wins.

Konsa remains with England and is expected to return to full training later this week before Sunday’s trip to Spain.

James Hill England call-up follows Bournemouth winning run

Bournemouth confirmed Hill’s selection on Tuesday, describing it as his first inclusion in the senior national squad.

Hill has previously represented England at under-20 and under-21 level. He now has the opportunity to make his senior debut in the final two Nations League group fixtures.

His selection follows a strong spell for Bournemouth. The club have won eight successive matches in all competitions, conceding just twice during that sequence.

Hill has helped provide the defensive foundation for those results. His move into Tuchel’s squad gives Bournemouth another reward for their recent form.

Ezri Konsa ruled out of Croatia but stays with England

England’s update said Konsa would miss Thursday’s match while following an individual programme.

“Ezri Konsa will not be in contention for Croatia at Wembley on Thursday as he continues to follow his own programme but will return to full training later this week before Sunday’s trip to Spain,” the statement said.

The Arsenal defender was substituted after a knee problem during last week’s Champions League win at Slavia Prague, but subsequently completed the league victory over Hull.

His absence against Croatia therefore does not amount to a withdrawal from the entire international window. England’s stated plan is for him to resume full training before the Spain fixture.

Hill adds to Tuchel’s defensive options

Hill’s arrival follows another change to England’s defensive group.

Dan Burn was called up on Monday after Marc Guehi withdrew through injury, as covered in our England squad update on Guehi and Burn.

With Konsa unavailable against Croatia, Hill joins Burn, Jarrad Branthwaite and Jarell Quansah among Tuchel’s central defensive options. Ben White is also in the squad.

Selection gives Hill a chance to make his debut, although Tuchel has not yet confirmed his starting defence.

When do England play Croatia and Spain?

England host Croatia at Wembley on Thursday, 12 November, with kick-off at 7.45pm GMT.

They then travel to Madrid to face Spain on Sunday, 15 November, also at 7.45pm GMT, according to England’s official fixture list.

Our England vs Croatia viewing guide has the UK television details.