Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain becomes latest player to withdraw from England squad

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (GETTY IMAGES)

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has become the latest member of Roy Hodgson's England squad to pull out of Wednesday's friendly with Italy in Berne.

The winger reported for duty this morning but, after picking up an ankle injury in Arsenal's friendly with Cologne yesterday, has immediately been released back to his club.

Oxlade-Chamberlain's departure follows last night's withdrawals of Joe Hart and Daniel Sturridge. Manchester City defender Joleon Lescott has been called into Hodgson's squad.

The decision to call up Lescott had already been taken before Oxlade-Chamberlain pulled out.

It means Hodgson's squad has been trimmed to 20, with uncapped duo John Ruddy and Jack Butland the only remaining keepers.

If Butland gets on the pitch it would complete the incredible achievement of earning a senior cap and playing four times for Great Britain during the Olympic whilst his only senior experience at domestic level remains the 24 games he played in League Two for Cheltenham last season.

The 19-year-old was called into Hodgson's squad for Euro 2012 following Ruddy's withdrawal with a broken finger.

Although he did not play, Butland made a big impression on Hodgson.

He was also outstanding during Great Britain's run to the Olympic quarter-finals.

However, it was anticipated Butland would be released back to Birmingham on Tuesday for their Capital One Cup first-round clash with Barnet at St Andrew's.

Hart's back injury changed that and now Butland stands on the brink of his senior bow.

PA