Manager Gareth Southgate has reinstated Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson for England’s final two Euro 2024 qualifiers. Wilson, who has scored seven Premier League goals this season, was recalled despite sustaining a hamstring injury during Newcastle’s recent loss at Borussia Dortmund.
The squad includes Tottenham midfielder James Maddison and Arsenal forward Bukayo Saka, despite their injury concerns. England is set to face Malta on November 17 and North Macedonia on November 20.
The national team has already secured qualification for the Euro 2024 tournament in Germany after a 3-1 victory against Italy in October. Notably, Chelsea forward Raheem Sterling has been omitted for the fifth successive squad.
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins retains his place after his inclusion in the October international matches, marking his first selection since March 2022. Additionally, Jordan Henderson, who moved to Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq from Liverpool in July, also secured a spot in the squad.
However, Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah and Manchester City’s John Stones are absent due to injuries. During a news conference, Southgate mentioned that the door was “10 per cent open” for Sterling and other unselected players.
He praised Sterling’s contributions to the team, emphasizing his quality and personality, acknowledging his crucial role in England’s journey over recent years.
Southgate further explained that Chelsea right-back Reece James opted out of the squad, feeling he wasn’t fully prepared, having recently returned to action after dealing with a hamstring issue.
England Squad
Goalkeepers: Sam Johnstone, Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale
Defenders: Levi Colwill, Lewis Dunk, Marc Guehi, Harry Maguire, Fikayo Tomori, Kieran Trippier, Kyle Walker
Midfielders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jude Bellingham, Conor Gallagher, Jordan Henderson, Kalvin Phillips, Declan Rice
Forwards: Jarrod Bowen, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Harry Kane, James Maddison, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Ollie Watkins, Callum Wilson.
Source: BBC Sports
