Arsenal star Bukayo Saka has withdrawn from the England squad due to injury ahead of upcoming games against Australia and Italy.
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Saka missed Arsenal’s win over Manchester City on Sunday but reported for international duty on Monday despite Mikel Arteta’s concerns over the winger.
Gunners boss Arteta insisted that Saka was ‘not available’ and could not play for his country – but Gareth Southgate’s side were keen to assess the 22-year-old themselves with the hope that he could feature against the Italians.
After running checks on Saka, though, the Three Lions have confirmed that he will now focus on his recovery and will play ‘no part’ in England’s next two fixtures.
‘Bukayo Saka will play no part in England’s fixtures with Australia and Italy,’ read a Three Lions statement on Monday.
‘The forward reported to St. George’s Park on Monday alongside the rest of the Three Lions’ squad.
‘Having missed Arsenal’s Premier League win against Manchester City on Sunday through injury, Saka was assessed by the England medical team and it was decided the player would continue his rehabilitation at his club.
‘No replacements are planned with Gareth Southgate having a squad of 25 players to work with.
‘England play host to Australia on Friday (13 October, 7.45pm) before returning to Wembley Stadium connected by EE to face Italy in a UEFA EURO 2024 qualifier on Tuesday (17 October, 7.45pm kick-off).’
Saka has earned 31 England caps to date, registering 11 goals, and featured for his nation at both Euro 2020 and the World Cup in Qatar last year.
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