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Declan Rice OUT of England's squad due to illness in another midfield blow to manager Gareth Southgate ahead of World Cup qualifiers against Albania and San Marino

Gareth Southgate has been dealt another key midfield blow after Declan Rice dropped out of the England squad through illness.

Sportsmail reported on Tuesday that Southgate was almost certain to be without Mason Mount for the game as he recovers from dental surgery.

But in another selection dilemma, Rice has withdrawn from the squad and will head back to West Ham.

Declan Rice has had to withdraw from England duty for their World Cup qualifiers due to illness

Rice and Mount were sure to start the game against Albania on Friday, a match where England can all but guarantee their place at next year’s World Cup.