Argentina lose defender Leonardo Balerdi for World Cup due to calf injury

Balerdi was included in Argentina's 26 player squad last week after reliable displays for Olympique de Marseille, with whom he featured 36 times across all tournaments.

"Defender Leonardo Balerdi sustained a muscular problem in the soleus of his right leg and will not be able to join the group for the World Cup," Argentina said in a statement.

"Keep your chin up, stay tough, and recover swiftly."

Argentina have yet to name a replacement for the 27 year old centre back, who has earned 11 international caps. They will face Honduras in a friendly match later on Saturday.

The reigning champions will kick off their Group J campaign against Algeria on June 16 before taking on Austria and Jordan.