Lee Carsley has made it clear that players like Harry Maguire and Eberechi Eze have done nothing wrong despite not being included in the England squad for the Nations League matches against Greece and Finland.
Interim manager Carsley announced his second squad today, with recalls for Kyle Walker, Jude Bellingham, and Dominic Solanke, who returns to the squad after a seven-year absence.
Maguire, who missed the weekend game against Tottenham due to injury, and Eze were left out, along with Tino Livramento and Jarrod Bowen.
Your #ThreeLions are locked in. 🔒 pic.twitter.com/90iH1KMwwk
— England (@England) October 3, 2024
Carsley explained his decisions, stating: “It’s more of a chance for me to look at other players. It’s nothing they have done, definitely nothing to do with form.”
He added, “I want them to feel like they’ve earned their place in the squad. I’ve spoken to all the players that aren’t involved and have had good conversations with them.”
No Maddison and no Rogers
James Maddison and Morgan Rogers, both in fine form, were also not included in the squad.
Carsley said, “There’s a lot of players that were close to being in this squad. The challenge is making sure that we pick a competitive squad that can win the two games.”
In a #ThreeLions squad for the first time in almost seven years.
Welcome back, @DomSolanke! 👊 pic.twitter.com/IdqMVsxZsq
— England (@England) October 3, 2024
Carsley delighted to have Solanke on board
Dominic Solanke, who has not played for England since 2017, has impressed with his recent performances for Spurs.
Carsley praised Solanke, stating, “He’s extremely talented and it’s a good that we’ve got him.”