Bukayo Saka has been forced to withdraw from the England squad for upcoming friendlies against Brazil and Belgium due to injury.
The 22-year-old Arsenal winger has been unable to participate in training sessions since joining up with the national team for international duty.
The Football Association confirmed that Saka arrived at St George’s Park earlier in the week carrying an injury, prompting his return to Arsenal for further rehabilitation.
England are set to face Brazil at Wembley on Saturday, followed by a match against Belgium at the national stadium on 26 March.
Saka’s absence represents a setback for England manager Gareth Southgate, especially considering the limited number of matches remaining before the Euro 2024 tournament.
With just two more scheduled fixtures after this international break, against Bosnia-Herzegovina and Iceland in June, before their Euro 2024 opener against Serbia, Saka’s withdrawal poses challenges for Southgate’s preparations.
The FA clarified that no additional replacements are planned, as the 25-man England squad continues their readiness for the forthcoming fixtures.
Saka has been a standout performer for Arsenal this season, contributing significantly to their Premier League title contention and Champions League quarter-final qualification.
Having scored 16 goals, including 13 in the Premier League, Saka’s absence will be keenly felt by both club and country.
Since making his debut for England in 2020, Saka has become an integral part of Southgate’s squad, earning accolades such as England men’s player of the year for two consecutive seasons.
With 11 goals in 32 appearances for his country, including a memorable hat-trick in a Euro 2024 qualifier against North Macedonia, Saka’s presence will be missed on the international stage as England continue their preparations for upcoming challenges.
Reported By BBC Sports
