England striker Jermain Defoe returned home on Thursday after the death of his father the Football Association announced.

The 29-yar-old Tottenham Hotspur striker flew back home from Poland and will return to the England camp in due course. No replacement was announced.

The FA said in a statement: "England striker Jermain Defoe has returned home to England this morning following the passing of his father overnight." 

"Jermain will re-join the England Euro squad in due course. There will be no replacement player called in.

"We would ask all media to respect Jermain and his family's privacy at this difficult time."

England arrived at their base in Poland on Wednesday. Defoe, who has made 47 appearances for his country, was not expected to start England's opening game against France on Monday, but with Wayne Rooney suspended for the first two games, England will only have Andy Carroll and Danny Welbeck as their two recognised strikers.

Defoe was, however, expected to be the impact substitute from the bench, with the Tottenham striker hitting the post in England's last match against Belgium at Wembley.

The FA did not mention when they expected Defoe to return.

Tottenham also prepared a statement offering their sympathies to their player. "Everyone at the Club sends their sincere condolences to Jermain and his family."