England U21s suffer major blow as Jacob Ramsey heads home early

Jacob Ramsey is flying home from the Under-21 European Championship with an ankle injury – and is facing a race to prove his fitness for Aston Villa’s start to the season.

The England midfielder was caught by a nasty challenge during the quarter-final victory over Portugal on Sunday and is heading to see a specialist.

That will determine how long the 22-year-old will be out and whether he requires surgery.

But that is seen as unlikely after Ramsey was seen leaving the Portugal fixture on crutches.

Emile Smith Rowe is expected to take his spot on the left wing for Wednesday’s semi-final against Israel, with Spain or Ukraine potentially waiting in the final.

Lee Carsley has other selections issues ahead of the semi, with full-backs Max Aarons and Ben Johnson suspended.

Losing Ramsey comes as a real blow to Carsley just one step out from the final.

The Villa star has been one of England’s most influential players in Georgia.

He netted the opening goal against Czech Republic and teed up the first goal against Israel, England’s semi-final opponents, in the group stage. 

Speaking after Ramsey went off injured against Portugal, Carsley was adamant no risks would be taken. 

‘We’ll assess Jacob tomorrow,’ England manager Carsley said. ‘We won’t be taking any chances.

‘If there’s a chance of a player with injections, they won’t be doing that. It’s still development football. 

‘Jacob’s in good hands. It’s hard to tell, he’s got a lot of numbness in his foot and ankle.’

He will now head home to England where Villa will be hoping he is fit for their season opener against Newcastle United on August 12.