Crystal Palace striker Christian Benteke has been forced to withdraw from the Belgian national team with injury.
Sky Sports News have confirmed that Premier League duo Benteke and Marouane Fellaini have both left the squad and returned to the respective clubs.
The misfiring striker was hoping to get the chance to impress Roberto Martinez during the first international break of the season, but concerns over his fitness have snatched away that opportunity.
The news comes as a blow for Roy Hodgson, but could also be a seen as a blessing in disguise.
Benteke has been struggling for form for some time now, but Hodgson has stuck with him at Selhurst Park, with options in the final third limited for the Palace boss.
The severity of Benteke’s injury remains unclear, but it could give a chance to the likes of Max Meyer and Alexander Sorloth to come into the team and make an impact.
