Arsenal's forward, Eddie Nketiah, has earned his inaugural England national team selection. He has been included in the squad for the upcoming matches against Ukraine and Scotland in September. Nketiah has demonstrated his proficiency by netting two goals in three Premier League matches so far this season. Furthermore, he holds the prestigious title of England's highest-scoring Under-21 player, having scored an impressive tally of 16 goals.
Al Ettifaq midfielder Jordan Henderson has made it into Gareth Southgate's 26-man squad, even though he recently transferred to the Saudi Arabian club. Southgate acknowledges that he does have reservations about the 33-year-old's choice to join the Saudi Pro League.
The manager of the England football team expressed, "We have observed every match, and as we progress, the crucial factor will be the physical intensity of the league, considering the challenging weather conditions. We need to assess if that will enable him to meet our required performance level."
Regarding the choice to include Henderson in the team despite relocating to Saudi Arabia and its limited LGBTQ+ rights, Southgate affirmed, "We stand in solidarity with the LGBT+ community, as many members of our team and staff have personal connections or friendships within that community."
We have attempted to provide considerable support, yet I acknowledge that certain community members may have felt disappointed. Each individual is entitled to live their life in accordance with their own choices. I can only discuss my personal perspective and the values that our team embodies, which include accepting all cultures and displaying empathy towards individuals in various circumstances.
If it is believed that our efforts have been inadequate, we must acknowledge that viewpoint. However, it is important to note that any shortcomings are unintentional. Dealing with these intricate situations requires our utmost effort to navigate through them successfully.
Maguire, Phillips in but Sterling omitted
Furthermore, the inclusion of former Manchester United captain Harry Maguire and Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips is noteworthy, despite the fact that both players have not participated in a single minute of club football this season.
Southgate commented on Maguire's inclusion, stating that the team has seen a loss of experienced players in the centre-half position. As a result, they are providing a chance for less experienced players to join the squad. However, it seems that Mings will be out for the entire season, Stones will not be available for this camp, and Dier has not been included in the Tottenham squad. With a vacancy in that area of the pitch, Southgate believes it is crucial to have some experience for the upcoming two games.
Despite his strong performance in the Blues' 3-0 victory over Luton, Chelsea forward Raheem Sterling has been left out of the squad, missing the chance to play for the national team. The 28-year-old accepts Southgate's decision and will now concentrate on maintaining his impressive form at Stamford Bridge.
Southgate confirmed that Sterling's chances of returning to his consideration were not completely ruled out, however, he expressed his displeasure with Sterling's absence. He highlighted that the opportunity for other players to showcase their skills and secure a place in the team was provided due to Sterling's unavailability in the last two matches.
"It is a difficult call and Raheem isn't particularly happy about it - I'm convinced he will have a good season at Chelsea, I've no doubt about that."
Colwill receives first formal call-up
Image:
Levi Colwill, a Chelsea defender, has earned his second selection for the England senior squad. It is noteworthy that Chelsea boasts three representatives in the squad, including Colwill who received his initial formal senior call-up in June. Furthermore, his presence in the squad complements that of his teammates Ben Chilwell and Conor Gallagher.
Content must be written in English:
Fikayo Tomori, the ex-Chelsea defender currently playing for AC Milan, has been summoned back by Southgate.
However, notable exclusions include Nick Pope, the goalkeeper for Newcastle, James Ward-Prowse, the midfielder for West Ham, and Ollie Watkins, the striker for Aston Villa.
England will play a Euro 2024 qualifying match against Ukraine in Poland on September 9. Following this, they will engage in a friendly match against Scotland at Hampden Park, as a part of their 150th anniversary celebrations of their inaugural game in 1872.