Sterling out of England matches with back problem

Raheem Sterling has pulled out of the England squad for their matches against Spain and Switzerland with a back problem, the Football Association announced on Monday.

The Manchester City forward, who played in six of England's seven matches as they reached the World Cup semi-finals in Russia, has scored twice in the Premier League so far this season.

BREAKING: Raheem Sterling has withdrawn from the England squad to face Spain and Switzerland due to a problem with his lower back. #SSN pic.twitter.com/bOEAN9L0RB

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) September 3, 2018

Manager Gareth Southgate, who celebrated his 48th birthday on Monday, is not expected to call up a replacement for Sterling.

The 23-year-old's withdrawal leaves England with just three forwards -- captain Harry Kane, Arsenal's Danny Welbeck and Manchester United youngster Marcus Rashford -- for the Nations League match with Spain on Saturday at Wembley and a friendly against Switzerland at the King Power Stadium three days later.

Gareth Southgate's squad is down to 22.

Raheem Sterling has withdrawn.

Full story: https://t.co/KwZxQMZPXY pic.twitter.com/R5i12TosuS

— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) September 3, 2018