Chelsea winger Jamie Gittens withdrawn from England Under-21 squad with ankle injury

Jamie Gittens has left the England Under-21 squad after injuring his ankle during the 4-2 European Championship qualifying victory over Kazakhstan.

The Chelsea winger was substituted in the 39th minute after being caught by a kick to the ankle. He was later seen leaving the stadium on crutches, prompting concern about the extent of the injury.

However, England Under-21 manager Lee Carsley said Gittens had been withdrawn as a precaution.

“Jamie got a kick on his ankle. We never take any risks,” Carsley said.

Gittens has returned to Chelsea’s training ground at Cobham, where he will be examined by the club’s medical staff. Further tests are required before the severity of the injury and a possible recovery period can be established.

Chelsea have not yet confirmed a diagnosis or provided a timescale for his return. More information is expected after the assessment process is completed.

West Ham winger Divine Mukasa has been called up to replace Gittens in the England Under-21 squad.

The injury follows a challenging period for Gittens since his move to Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund for a reported 52 million pounds. He has found it increasingly difficult to secure regular first-team opportunities under manager Xabi Alonso.

Chelsea’s next Premier League match is against Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, 10 October. Gittens’ availability for that fixture will depend on the outcome of the medical tests.