By The England national football team has announced the withdrawal of Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Ollie Watkins from the squad for their upcoming Nations League fixtures against the Republic of Ireland and Finland.
Manchester City forward Foden, recently named PFA Player of the Year, did not join the squad due to illness. Chelsea forward Palmer and Aston Villa striker Watkins initially reported to St George’s Park but have since returned to their clubs “to continue their rehabilitation from ongoing issues,” according to the Football Association.
Interim England manager Lee Carsley, who replaced Gareth Southgate following his resignation after the Euro 2024 final loss to Spain on July 14, now faces the challenge of adjusting his squad for the matches. England is set to play the Republic of Ireland in Dublin on September 7, followed by a home fixture against Finland at Wembley Stadium on September 10.
These games mark England’s first international appearances since their defeat in the Euro 2024 final. Carsley, previously in charge of the England Under-21 team, was appointed interim manager on August 9.
In response to these withdrawals and as part of his squad selection, Carsley has brought in several players from his former U21 setup. Angel Gomes, Tino Livramento, Morgan Gibbs-White, and Noni Madueke have all received call-ups. Lille winger Gomes, Newcastle defender Livramento, Nottingham Forest midfielder Gibbs-White, and Chelsea forward Madueke previously played under Carsley at the U21 level.
The interim manager has also recalled Manchester City playmaker Jack Grealish, who was omitted from England’s preliminary Euro 2024 squad, and Manchester United defender Harry Maguire.
These squad changes come as England looks to regroup and start a new chapter under Carsley’s leadership, with an eye on upcoming international tournaments and qualifications.
