England’s preparations for their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures have been dealt a blow as three key players withdraw from the squad.
Cole Palmer, Ollie Watkins and Phil Foden will not feature in the matches against the Republic of Ireland and Finland.
The trio’s absence comes as Lee Carsley takes charge of the Three Lions on an interim basis, following Gareth Southgate’s departure.
Carsley, who previously managed England’s Under-21s, now faces his first challenge at the helm of the senior squad.
The Football Association confirmed the withdrawals on Tuesday evening, leaving the interim manager with reduced options for his debut fixtures.
Chelsea’s Cole Palmer and Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins reported to St. George’s Park but were sent back to their clubs after assessment.
Three England stars have pulled out of the squad
PA
Both players are to continue rehabilitation for ongoing issues.
Manchester City’s Phil Foden did not join the squad due to illness.
The Football Association stated: “Foden did not report through illness and is ruled out of the matches against Republic of Ireland and Finland.”
These withdrawals present a challenge for Carsley, who had made bold selections in his first squad. Notable omissions included Marcus Rashford, Kyle Walker, James Maddison and Adam Wharton.
Instead, Carsley included four potential debutants in Tino Livramento, Angel Gomes, Noni Madueke and Morgan Gibbs-White, though he will not be making any call-ups to replace Palmer, Watkins and Foden.
The FA statement provided further details on the situation: “The Three Lions squad reported to St. George’s Park on Tuesday but, following assessment, both Palmer and Watkins returned to their clubs to continue rehabilitation for ongoing issues.”
Notably, the FA added: “No further additions are planned at this moment in time.”
The upcoming fixtures see England face the Republic of Ireland in Dublin on Saturday, followed by a match against Finland.
These Nations League games mark the beginning of a new era for the Three Lions, as they adjust to life without long-serving manager Gareth Southgate.
Carsley’s first squad selection had already raised eyebrows with its mix of established players and fresh faces.
Lee Carsley is taking charge of his first games in charge of England
PA
The interim manager now faces the challenge of adapting his tactics with a depleted squad.
England’s Nations League campaign begins against Ireland at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.
The Three Lions then host Finland in their second fixture at Wembley.
These matches will provide Carsley with his first opportunity to implement his vision for the national team.
Phil Foden had already pulled out of the squad
PA
Despite the setbacks, the interim manager will be keen to make a positive impression as England embark on this new chapter.
The FA’s decision not to call up replacements suggests confidence in the remaining squad members to step up.