Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford has been left out of the England national football team’s pre-tournament squad for the European Championships in June 2024.
The tournament, which will take place in Germany, will mark a swift change from Rashford’s overwhelming influence on the Three Lions squad less than two years after he played a key role in helping England make the 2022 FIFA World Cup quarter-finals.
Rashford has not had the best season and this omission is the nail in the coffin for the player who was among the nominees for Premier League Player of the Year in 2022/23.
Speaking on his omission, England manager Gareth Southgate said: “These are of course difficult calls. You are talking about very good players who have been important in what we’ve done over a number of years.”
“With Marcus, I just feel that other players in that area of the pitch had better seasons. It’s as simple as that.”
Rashford, in response to his omission from the tournament, posted a message on social media which reads: “Wishing Gareth and the boys all the best for the up and coming tournament.”
Southgate also commented on the other absences in his team, one of which is former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson, who he previously was unable to do without. Chelsea fullback Ben Chilwell is also a noticeable omission, one which has sparked rumours of his future with the Blues.
“Hendo has given himself every chance,” said Southgate. “The determining factor is the injury he picked up at the last camp [in March]. He has missed five weeks and just hasn’t been able to get to the intensity in the game since then.”
“He’s a fantastic professional, it was a difficult call to make as he’s been so important and supportive in my time.”
“All the boys I have spoken to: Ben [Chilwell], Marcus and Jordan – who were all with us last time – were all incredibly professional and considering the disappointment, they dealt with it well.”
However, he called up Luke Shaw, who has missed a lot of action in the past year due to injury. Southgate explained the left-back’s addition like this: “I have to say he is up against it – he’s missed a lot of football,” Southgate said on Shaw’s fitness.
“The fact he’s been first choice in that position, we’re probably giving him longer than we might have done. I’m not sure what is realistic at this moment in time.”
“I’ve talked with him, the medical team are liaising with Man Utd closely. But I would have to say he is a long shot.”
