Gareth Southgate has confirmed Bukayo Saka and other key England stars are out of the first pre-EURO 2024 friendly as injury issues mount.
England face Bosnia and Herzegovina tomorrow evening as they continue their preparations for the European Championships in Germany this summer.
Southgate confirmed that although Saka trained this morning with the team, he will miss tomorrow’s game due to injury. “Saka will miss tomorrow, he is progressing well but he will be rested tomorrow and could be available for Friday.”
In terms of other injuries among the camp, most notably Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw and local hero Anthony Gordon, Southgate added “All are progressing well, we’re pleased with the progress they’ve made but none will be available tomorrow. Anthony has a good chance to be available to play on Friday.
Trippier added, when asked about his recent injury concerns: “I’m fine, I’m ready to go. I’ve worked very hard to get back to where I need to be.”
Champions League winner Jude Bellingham will not be involved in either of England’s upcoming friendly matches, with the England boss confirming he believes he needs to clear his head and spend time with his family. “It’s all about psychological freshness.” Southgate said.
When asked about the Real Madrid star, the England boss was full of praise: “For him to cap off that season with winning a UCL, it’s phenomenal. He’s got humility and understanding and his family have to take enormous credit for that.” To which Tripper added: “He doesn’t seem like a 20-year-old! Everyone’s delighted for him.”
“We’ve got 43 days until the final. Not every day is going to be a great one, not every hour is going to be perfect. But tomorrow’s the first opportunity to display what we’ve been building in public.” Southgate affirmed when asked about how far England can go in this tournament.
A question to which Trippier added: “We shouldn’t be shy to say we can win it. We’ve got a great squad and we can go all the way. The togetherness in the squad is unbelievable. It’s the best I’ve been involved in.
Southgate confirmed that Trippier, who plays for Newcastle United, will be his captain for tomorrow’s game at St. James’ Park.
Trippier said: “Gareth has created what it means to represent England. I’m a leader with or without the armband. It’s an honour to be leading the team out at St. James’ Park and it will be very special.”
