Overview

• Raheem Sterling has been left out of the England squad for the forthcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia - his fifth consecutive omission from the team.
• Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson has been included in the squad, despite injury concerns, while Manchester City defender John Stones and Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah are absent due to injury.
• Manager Gareth Southgate stated that the door remains open for Sterling and other players not in the current squad, citing the strong performances of the current team as the reason for Sterling's exclusion.
• Amidst Sterling's absence, Aston Villa's in-form Ollie Watkins is likely to get another chance to impress in the upcoming matches.
• Southgate, whose contract expires next December, remains relaxed about his future and insists his focus is on the next tournament rather than personal milestones.