West Ham rising star handed England promotion as THREE players withdraw through injury

West Ham midfielder Divine Mukasa could make his England U21 debut against Slovakia on Friday 2 October, with supporters able to watch through the official England app.

Lee Carsley’s side host Slovakia in Stoke before travelling to Cork to face the Republic of Ireland on Tuesday 6 October.

England’s squad announcement confirms that both European Championship qualifiers will be available live on the app.

When could Divine Mukasa make his England U21 debut?

Friday offers Mukasa his first opportunity following his promotion from the U20 squad. Selection remains Carsley’s decision, so the call-up does not guarantee an appearance.

The Manchester City loanee stepped up after Jamie Gittens, Kellen Fisher and Ben Chrisene withdrew through injury.

He had already featured in the U20s’ 3-1 victory over Italy, alongside fellow Hammer Airidas Golambeckis, as covered in our England youth international update.

His attention now switches to the older age group for the remainder of the window.

Ireland fixture falls three days before QPR

The second qualifier gives West Ham another date to monitor before Championship football returns.

England face Ireland on Tuesday, with West Ham preparing to host QPR on Friday 9 October.

That leaves a short turnaround if Mukasa plays in Cork. His involvement and minutes will therefore be relevant to Nuno Espírito Santo’s preparations.

For now, the immediate opportunity is clear: earn a place against Slovakia and turn an encouraging call-up into an appearance at the next international level.

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Graduate Sports Journalist with a love for football.

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