Borna Barisic was dropped completely out of the Croatia squad that lost to England at Wembley, failing to make a place among the 12 substitutes despite his incredible domestic season.
Croatian boss Zlako Dalic picked the Ibrox ace for warm up friendlies against Armenia and Belgium but ahead of the Group D opener he turned to Josko Gvardiol to face England.
The teenager from Dinamo Zagreb had only made two appearances for the full international side, both in friendlies, but was given the vote at Wembley ahead of Barisic.
Explaining the decision, Dalic told The Sun:
I think this is the best possible option for this match. Gvardiol has come in at left-back as Barisic has had some problems in the last ten days.
Croatia lost the match 1-0 but Gvardiol turned in a steady performance and will expect to retain his place.
After losing at Wembley Croatia now face two matches at Hampden- against the Czech Republic and Scotland.