Reason for Sterling’s England omission revealed as Lampard offers verdict & Gallagher earns call-up

Raheem Sterling wasn’t called up to the latest England squad for their EURO 2024 qualifiers next month and the reason for his omission has been revealed.

Conor Gallagher was the only Chelsea player to make Gareth Southgate’s squad to face Malta and North Macedonia in June. Reece James, Ben Chilwell and Mason Mount are still recovering from their injuries as focus switches to getting fit and ready for the 2023/24 campaign.

Sterling’s endured a difficult first season at Chelsea since arriving from Manchester City last summer.

He was omitted from the squad and a representative of the England international has confirmed the reason for the winger being left out for the two qualifiers.

As quoted by The Athletic, they said: “Following a private conversation between coach and player, a mutual decision has been made for Raheem Sterling to sit out the upcoming internationals, focusing instead on recuperating his body in preparation for the upcoming season.”

Caretaker Chelsea boss Frank Lampard was quizzed on Sterling’s England situation ahead of their Premier League clash against Manchester United on Thursday. He said: “I don’t know the exact details of the conversation between Raheem and Gareth.

“From my personal memories of playing for England, these games at the end of the season are different challenges compared to individuals who have played a lot of games and minutes.

“I’m sure they will find the right outcome that is best for England and Raheem.”

Full 25-man England squad

Goalkeepers: Sam Johnstone, Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale

Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Lewis Dunk, Marc Guehi, Harry Maguire, Tyrone Mings, Luke Shaw, John Stones, Kieran Trippier, Kyle Walker

Midfielders: Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze, Conor Gallagher, Jordan Henderson, James Maddison, Kalvin Phillips, Declan Rice

Forwards: Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Callum Wilson