Marc Guehi did not play due to a foot injury described as a bone bruise, which left him unable to walk and on crutches in the days leading up to the match. Palace's manager said he was not fit to feature, explaining that Guehi was on crutches and unable to participate, and there was uncertainty about his availability for England as well. This injury situation also cast doubt on his ability to join England for the upcoming qualifiers. Direct answer:
- Reason for not playing: a foot injury (bone bruise) that left him unable to walk, requiring crutches, which prevented him from playing for Crystal Palace and likely ruling him out of England duty in the immediate window.
