Alex McCarthy replaces Forster in England squad

Southampton's second-choice goalkeeper Alex McCarthy has replaced injured club teammate Fraser Forster in the England squad.

The Football Association confirmed the 26-year-old will link up with Sam Allardyce's squad at St George's Park on Thursday evening due to Forster suffering an arm issue.

McCarthy's call-up marks his second selection in a Three Lions squad after he was included in Roy Hodgson's ranks for friendlies with Ireland and Brazil in May 2013.

The 26-year-old, who has three England Under-21 caps to his name, moved to the south coast from Crystal Palace this summer, and made seven league appearances as Wayne Hennessey's understudy last season.

He'll likely be third choice for Allardyce's first match in charge of England in Slovakia on Sunday. The gloves are expected to be handed to Joe Hart, who joined Torino on loan from Manchester City on Wednesday, with Burnley's Tom Heaton acting as his deputy.