FIFA World Cup 2018: Tournament over for Croatia's Nikola Kalinic

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Moscow, June 18: Croatia have sent AC Milan striker Nikola Kalinic home from the World Cup due to a back problem, head coach Zlatko Dalic has confirmed.

Reports emerged earlier on Monday (June 18) that Kalinic had refused to come off the bench during his country's opening 2-0 win over Nigeria in Group D, citing his back complaint.

Speaking after Saturday's match, Dalic told reporters his side had finished the 90 minutes without injuries but "with a problem".

However, Dalic told a specially arranged news conference that Kalinic would depart Croatia's team base in Roschino but due to recurring back spasms, as opposed to any disciplinary issue.

"During the Nigeria encounter, Kalinic was warming up and was supposed to come on in the second half. However, he then stated that he wasn't ready to come on due to a back issue," Dalic said.

"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 [to make] this decision."

Kalinic struggled to find his best form after joining AC Milan from Fiorentina last season, scoring six goals in 31 Serie A appearances.

The 30-year-old's absence means Croatia lack a specialist alternative to Mario Mandzukic, although Andrej Kramaric – who started the Nigeria game playing off the Juventus man – can lead the line if needed.

Croatia are back in action against Argentina in Nizhny Novgorod on Thursday (June 21).

Source: OPTA