Fabian Delph to miss Euro 2016, Marcus Rashford set to start v Australia

Updated 26/05/2016 at 21:17 GMT

Fabian Delph’s hopes of competing at Euro 2016 suffered a huge blow after England manager Roy Hodgson revealed the midfielder would only make his standby list.

Spain's Thiago Alcantara in action with England's Fabian Delph.

Image credit: Reuters

Delph is nursing a groin strain and will miss Friday's friendly against Australia at the Stadium of Light, with Hodgson admitting only injuries can drag the Manchester City man back into his France plans.

Hodgson must cull three players from his 26-man party between now and the May 31 deadline.

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"Unfortunately, he has strained a muscle in his groin area," Hodgson told a news conference.

"He's stayed in Manchester and I've made it clear to him that means probably he won't be with us either in the final 23, unless, of course, we have injuries.

I've put him on a standby list actually, and he understands and accepts that.

"I don't think it's going to be a really long-term injury for him, so if I needed him and wanted him to come with us it's easy for me to call him and ask him to do so.

"But I have actually said to him with the situation we have with the other 25 players, it might be unlikely."

Meanwhile, breakthrough sensation Marcus Rashford will make his debut against Australia – and should start – with Daniel Sturridge struggling to shake off a calf problem.

Marcus Rashford at England training.

Image credit: Eurosport

The Manchester United striker only made his professional debut in February, but some impressive displays culminated in his rapid promotion to the international setup. He finished the season with eight goals in 18 appearances.

"It's pretty obvious that Rashford is going to play a serious part in the game," said Hodgson.

"I'm more than content that he will handle that situation. He's settled in very well.