Belgium forward Dries Mertens has apologised for the push that leaves Gary Cahill unable to take his place in the England squad for Euro 2012.

Cahill was left with a double fracture jaw after colliding with Joe Hart during Saturday's friendly with Belgium. Cahill connected with Hart as a result of a push from Meterns.

Mertens took to Twitter to explain his actions and reach out to the Chelsea defender.

He said: "I sincerely apologize for the harm I've cost to Cahill. When in the heat of the moment, you often don't think about the consequences. My thoughts go out to him and I hope he recovers well!"

Cahill's absence is a further blow to an England team already struggling to cope with loss of key players Frank Lampard and Gareth Barry.

Liverpool youngster Martin Kelly has joined up with the squad and will take Cahill's place at Euro 2012.