England have announced the withdrawal of Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Ollie Watkins from the squad for the September international break.
Foden’s absence was anticipated due to his recent illness, which had kept him out of Manchester City’s last two matches.
Pep Guardiola had suggested that Foden’s participation for England was unlikely. Consequently, Foden did not report for international duty and has been officially removed from the squad.
Palmer and Watkins also had to return to their respective clubs after being assessed at St. George’s Park.
The statement revealed, “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.”
It is significant for both Chelsea and Aston Villa that neither Palmer nor Watkins has encountered new injury problems.
Palmer, who seemed to strain his hamstring during the Conference League loss to Servette, managed to play the full 90 minutes against Crystal Palace shortly thereafter.
Chelsea noted that his withdrawal was “to continue rehabilitation for ongoing issues.”
Watkins, on the other hand, has been substituted at the hour mark in each of Aston Villa’s Premier League matches.
Manager Unai Emery explained, “He was coming here with a small injury, he was not really 100% when he started training with us. He needed one week more resting time than other players after his comeback.”
