The first player to be sent home from the Russia World Cup 2018 was Croatian striker, Nikola Kalinic after claiming he had a back injury, even refusing to come on as a substitute during their 2-0 win over Nigeria.
This means the Croatia team will have to play with only 22 players, given the fact that the 30-year-old cannot be replaced. AC Milan's Kalinic had complained of back pains even during the friendly loss to Brazil.
Kalinic has scored 15 goals in 41 appearances for Croatia and has in the past played for Blackburn Rovers; between 2009 and 2011.
According to the Croatia coach, Zlatko Dalic, he released Nikola Kalinic as he wants fit and healthy players.
"I need my players fit and ready to play. During the Nigeria encounter, Kalinic was warming up and was supposed to come on in the second half," he said.
"However, he then stated that he wasn't ready to come on due to a back issue. The same thing happened during the Brazil friendly in England, as well as before the practice session on Sunday,"
"I have calmly accepted that and since I need my players fit and ready to play, I have made this decision,” added Dalic.
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