Injured Jude Bellingham could miss start of England’s Nations League campaign

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Jude Bellingham is set to be sidelined for a period due to injury and could miss the start of England’s Nations League season.

The Real Madrid midfielder has suffered a leg injury and reports in Spain suggest the 21-year-old will not be available until after the international break.

A statement from the Spanish club on Friday said: “Following tests carried out today by the Real Madrid medical team on Jude Bellingham, the player has been diagnosed with an injury to the plantaris muscle in his right leg.

“His progress will be monitored.”

Real host Real Valladolid on Sunday and then play LaLiga matches against Las Palmas and Real Betis before the international break.

England open the Nations League season under interim coach Lee Carsley on September 7 away to Ireland, before hosting Finland at Wembley three days later.