Arsenal’s Kieran Gibbs Called Up To England Squad To Replace Injured Ashley Cole

By Football Talk on October 7, 2013

Arsenal defender Kieran Gibbs has been called up to replace Ashley Cole in the England squad after the Chelsea full-back pulled out with a rib injury, it’s been confirmed this evening.

Cole was forced off during Chelsea’s 3-1 win over Norwich at Carrow Road on Sunday afternoon and didn’t report for duty at St. Georges Park this afternoon where he was meant to link up with the rest of the England squad.

It’s now been confirmed he’ll been forced to pull out of the squad ahead of Friday’s crucial World Cup qualifier against Montenegro and will stay at Stamford Bridge to receive treatment on his injury.

Everton’s Leighton Baines will now start on Friday with manager Roy Hodgson bringing in Arsenal left-back Kieran Gibbs as cover to replace Cole.

Gibbs has been one of the Gunners most consistent performers so far this season, helping Arsene Wenger’s men to the top of the table and he’ll now get a chance to build on his 2 senior caps.