Carsley sends message to Maddison & co after England squad list snub
England’s interim manager Lee Carsley has made it clear that Marcus Rashford and James Maddison remain in contention for future call-ups, despite their absence from the squad for the upcoming Nations League matches against Ireland and Finland. While both players were notable omissions, Carsley emphasized that their exclusion does not signify a permanent decision, and they continue to be part of his plans moving forward.
In his first squad announcement on Thursday, Carsley introduced several fresh faces, including Angel Gomes, Tino Livramento, Morgan Gibbs-White, and Noni Madueke. These young talents have earned their spots through impressive performances at both club and U21 levels, signaling Carsley’s intent to inject new energy into the team as they embark on their Nations League campaign.
Despite their experience and previous contributions to the national team, Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford and Tottenham playmaker James Maddison were left out of the squad. Rashford, 26, and Maddison, 27, were also not included in Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2024 squad earlier this summer, raising questions about their current standing in the national setup.
Addressing their omission, Carsley explained, “Rash and Maddison? There are players ahead of them. They are on the radar and will be considered in the future.” This statement reassures fans that the door is not closed for the two players, and they may still feature in England’s plans as the team progresses through the competition.
One of the standout selections in Carsley’s squad is Chelsea winger Noni Madueke, who recently caught the eye with a sensational hat-trick in Chelsea’s 6-2 victory over Wolves. Carsley praised the 21-year-old’s contributions at the U21 level and expressed confidence that Madueke will play a crucial role in the upcoming matches.
“He has done really well for the U21s, and I think he will be really important in this camp,” Carsley said. “He will bring energy. We are coming off the back of a losing final and may need an injection of energy and enthusiasm. The new players will bring that.”
Rashford and Maddison’s International Records
James Maddison, who made his senior debut for the Three Lions in 2019, has been capped seven times. Despite his creative prowess for Tottenham, he has struggled to secure a regular spot in the England lineup. Similarly, Marcus Rashford, with 17 goals in 60 appearances for England, has been a key figure for his country but now finds himself competing with a new generation of talent for a place in the squad.
England faces a challenging Nations League campaign, as they find themselves in the second tier for the first time following their relegation in the previous campaign.
In Group B2, the Three Lions will face Ireland, Finland, and Greece in both home and away fixtures, aiming to regain their place among Europe’s elite.
As England prepares for these crucial matches, Lee Carsley’s selections indicate a focus on youth and energy, while experienced players like Rashford and Maddison remain in contention for future opportunities.
The squad’s blend of emerging talent and established names sets the stage for an exciting and competitive Nations League campaign.
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