Gareth Southgate has admitted that Raheem Sterling is “not particularly happy” after being overlooked for an England recall. The 28-year-old Chelsea winger, who has 82 caps for the national team, has not played for England since December’s World Cup quarter-final exit to France.
Your #ThreeLions squad for September camp! 🦁
— England (@England) August 31, 2023
Sterling missed England’s March meet-up due to injury, and a nagging hamstring issue led to a “mutual decision” to focus on recuperating his body after a challenging first season at Chelsea. Despite a strong start to the new campaign, Southgate chose not to include Sterling in the squad for September’s Euro 2024 qualifier against Ukraine and friendly in Scotland.
Southgate explained that he was pleased with the group in June and that to bring Sterling back, he would have to leave someone else out. The England manager acknowledged that Sterling was not happy about the decision but expressed confidence in the player’s ability to have an excellent season with Chelsea.
Sterling’s camp issued a statement, saying, “Raheem will revert to the coach for all comment but would like to reinforce that the decision has been respected. Raheem will continue to focus on his domestic form”.
Sterling joined Chelsea from Manchester City in July 2022 for £47.5 million.
