If I was to put a bet on Lallana, would my bet be refunded if he doesn't go due to injury rather than due to non-selection? A bit like a non-runner in a horse race?
These 'nanny state' rules are there to cater for irresponsible parents who would take the p**s if there were no rules. Responsible parents ensure that their children aren't disadvantaged by taking them out of school on rare occasions. It's a shame there has to be a one-size-fits-all rule for this kind of thing but most rules and laws exist to cater for the lowest common denominator. Such is life.
As this thread seems to be following the 'stadium expansion' script to the letter, I'm duly poised with my hilarious Groundhog Day picture for the appropriate moment in act 2, scene 3.
And...action...