Chelsea striker Raheem Sterling is the main absentee from the 25-man squad announced by manager Gareth Southgate on Wednesday for June’s Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia. The player with 82 caps went through a very bad season for his club, only 12th in the Premier League. Ben Chilwell being injured, only Conor Gallagher, in midfield, will represent the Blues in selection.
But according to a spokesperson for the player, the decision was taken in agreement with the staff of the selection to allow him to “regenerate his body for next season”. “I spoke with him about a week ago, general reconnection,” Southgate explained. “He is not happy with his physical condition, having had a hamstring problem. […] He does not think he can play at the level he should, ”he continued.
This absence is the delight of Eberechi Eze, the attacking midfielder of Crystal Palace, author of performances noticed during the eight matches under the leadership of Roy Hodgson who replaced Patrick Vieira at the end of March, punctuated by six goals.
Among the other small surprises, the recall of Sam Johstone, also an Eagles player, in the cages, in place of Nick Pope, yet 3rd in the championship with Newcastle. In defence, Lewis Dunk was recalled for the first time in four and a half years, reaping the benefits of Brighton’s fine season, qualifying for Europe for the first time in its history with Roberto de Zerbi in charge.
After victories in Italy and against Ukraine, England got off to a good start in Group C of Euro 2024 qualifying, before traveling to Malta on June 16 and hosting Macedonia at Old Trafford. in Manchester on the 19th.
