CARDIFF: Tom Lockyer has been called into the Wales’ Euro 2020 squad after James Lawrence was forced to withdraw because of a training injury.

St Pauli defender Lawrence, 28, was included when the 26-man squad was named on Sunday night.

But he has been ruled out less than 24 hours later and will be replaced by Luton centre-back Lockyer.

Lockyer, 26, has won 13 caps and was considered unfortunate by some to have missed out in the original squad.

He made 23 Luton appearances in 2020-21 and played three times for Wales. He has not played since February and was ruled out for the season in April after ankle surgery.

Lawrence spoke of his disappointment on social media, but wished his team-mates the best for the tournament.

“It’s been a pretty tough last couple of days and I’m absolutely devastated to say that I have to withdraw from the Wales Euro 2020 squad due to a muscle injury I picked up in training,” Lawrence said on Instagram.

“I’m absolutely gutted to not be able to go and represent my country on one of the biggest international stages. I’m sure that many of you can appreciate that this was a childhood dream and words fall short to describe what I’m feeling right now having to sit out.

“I’ll be supporting from the side and be doing everything I can to be fit and ready for the new season and the upcoming national break in September.

“For now I wish the boys all the best for the upcoming games, I’m sure they’ll do the country proud.”

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