Euro 2024 qualifier: Why I dropped Sterling from England squad – Southgate

England manager, Gareth Southgate, has revealed why he did not call up Chelsea forward, Raheem Sterling to the England squad.

He admitted that the England forward is ‘not happy’ with being dropped from Three Lions’ latest squad.

Sterling has started the season on a good note and has been impressive in their last three games.

But the 28-year-old could not find a place in the Three Lions squad for their games against Ukraine and the friendly against Scotland.

Explaining his decision, Southgate explained he was reluctant to change up his options.

“We were really pleased with the group, to bring Raheem back in, we have got to leave somebody else out,’ Southgate told a press conference on Thursday.

“On the back of three games, I didn’t think anyone in this group of attacking players warrants being left out.

“It’s really good to see Raheem start the season so well. He looks in good condition, he looks hungry, he is obviously an important player for us, and has been an important player for us.

“But we have, in those attacking positions just behind the nine, got a lot of competition for places. I think all of those players have started the season well and the group that is with us has done really well for us in recent games.

“It’s a difficult call and Raheem is not particularly happy about it.

“I understand that because he’s an important player for us and I am convinced he is going to have an excellent season at Chelsea, there is  no doubt about that.”