England manager Gareth Southgate has made a late addition to his team just days before the start of Euro 2024.
On Thursday Southgate whittled his provision 33-man squad for the European Championships in Germany down to the required 26.
The injured Harry Maguire, as well as Jack Grealish and James Maddison, were the surprise names to be snubbed for the tournament, while Jarrad Branthwaite, Curtis Jones, Jarell Quansah and James Trafford also all failed to make Southgate’s final squad.
However, it appears one final player will be added to Southgate’s line-up for the tournament.
The England boss has now called up Manchester United goalkeeper Tom Heaton, with the player set to be included as a training goalkeeper.
The 38-year-old will be looking to lighten the load on the three goalkeepers included in the squad – Jordan Pickford, Dean Henderson and Aaron Ramsdale.
Heaton confirmed his call-up with a statement on social media, which read: “Incredibly honoured to be asked by Gareth to join the squad.
“To get the call to go to a major tournament, to help in anyway I can and pass on my experience is a proud moment
“We have a great squad, I’m excited and can’t wait to join the group.”
Meanwhile, Southgate said: “I am really pleased Tom has agreed to join us in Germany. Experience tells us that a tournament can put a lot of demand on our goalkeeping group led by Martyn Margetson. Tom will play an invaluable role on the training pitch supporting Jordan, Aaron and Dean.
Heaton has made three England caps (Getty)
“Off the field as someone we all know well, he will add to the positive environment we are always looking to create. We are grateful to Manchester United for their support in making this happen.”
Heaton won three England caps between 2016 and 2017, having previously represented his nation from under-16 to under-21 level.
The United shot-stopper was also a member of the squads during the Three Lions’ dismal Euro 2016 campaign and the 2019 Nations League Finals.
England face Serbia in their opening match of the tournament on Sunday.
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Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics:Â England, Euro 2024, Gareth Southgate, Manchester United, Tom Heaton