Rio Ngumoha's hopes of being added to World Cup squad as Liverpool star dazzles
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Liverpool FC NewsFeaturesRio NgumohaLiverpool winger Rio Ngumoha has been called up to England's World Cup training camp in Miami, but FIFA eligibility rules mean the 17-year-old cannot be added to the final 26-man tournament squadRio Ngumoha played for England in Tampa(Image: Getty Images)Rio Ngumoha made a sensational start to his England career on Saturday, as he helped the Three Lions beat New Zealand on the eve of this summer's World Cup.The 17-year-old winger came off the bench at half-time to make his senior international debut in Florida and was given the Player of the Match award for his dazzling display. Harry Kane's first-half goal was the difference, as England won 1-0.Liverpool star Ngumoha was brought into the England camp to help bolster training numbers before the World Cup.
Thomas Tuchel needed additional players because Crystal Palace and Arsenal representatives arrived late due to club commitments.After his performance on Saturday, fans are wondering whether Ngumoha can be added to the 26-man World Cup squad in the event of an injury to another player.Under World Cup regulations, teams are permitted to call up a late injury replacement up to 24 hours before their opening fixture. However, the player must feature in the provisional 55-man squad submitted to FIFA.As Ngumoha was not included on that initial 55-man list, he cannot be added to the tournament squad under any circumstances.Ngumoha impressed on his England debut(Image: Getty Images)The only eligible stand-in is Alex Scott.The Bournemouth star remains the sole youngster currently traveling with the squad who can be called upon should an injury arise.Unlike Ngumoha, Josh King, and Ethan Nwaneri, Scott was named in the preliminary 55-man party, rendering him eligible for late promotion.England retains the ability to make alterations to its 26-man roster for injury or illness reasons until 24 hours before its opening clash against Croatia.Once the tournament gets underway, FIFA regulations stipulate that only goalkeepers may be replaced in an emergency.Despite failing to secure a place in the World Cup squad, Ngumoha remains with the wider group to soak up priceless experience at the senior level.He will be in contention to play against Costa Rica ahead of the tournament's official kick-off, having made his debut against New Zealand.Ngumoha's omission means Liverpool will be without representation in an England squad at a major tournament for the first time since 1986 — ending a 40-year run of Anfield players featuring for the Three Lions on the grandest international stage.Choose Liverpool.com as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.Rio NgumohaLiverpool FCEngland Football TeamFIFA World Cup