---
title: "West Ham rising star handed England promotion as THREE players withdraw through injury"
canonical: "https://readwestham.com/2026/09/29/divine-mukasa-england-u21-debut-how-to-watch/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "James Chettle"
section: "West Ham Injury News"
published: "2026-09-29T14:00:00Z"
modified: "2026-09-29T15:50:39Z"
---

# 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](https://www.englandfootball.com/articles/2026/Sep/28/england-mu21-squad-update-divine-mukasa-20262809) 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](https://readwestham.com/2026/09/25/west-ham-england-u20-italy-mukasa-mayers-golambeckis/).

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](https://readwestham.com/2026/09/28/west-ham-qpr-team-news-injuries-suspensions/) 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.