Speaking about leaving Jesse Lingard out of England’s 26-man squad for Euro 2020, Gareth Southgate said: “For me personally, it was very difficult to speak to Jesse, who has given so much to England, has performed so well for England over a long period of time.
“James Ward-Prowse who has been captain of the Under-21s and then Ollie Watkins, who had a tremendous season with Aston Villa. Those three, I gave them the option of going home if they wanted to but they were all adamant they would want to stay and be a part of the group.
“They know that they will be involved in these two matches. I think Jesse will probably start tomorrow (vs Austria). Their commitment has been exemplary and their professionalism has been brilliant and meant that yesterday afternoon when I had the conversations with those players, although they were disappointed they knew where they stood and it has meant the atmosphere around the camp has stayed positive and very relaxed.”
4 Man United players have been included in the England squad for the Euros – including Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw. Lingard will now probably go on holiday after England’s friendly games before what is guaranteed to be an interesting summer for him – which might see him leave Man United on a permanent basis.
