Chelsea striker Raheem Sterling has been left out of this England squad for the games against Malta and North Macedonia.
Sterling was not in the last squad named by Gareth Southgate in March but would have been included then if he was fit.
However after a conversation between the manager and the player it has been decided he wont be in the squad for this camp,
A spokesperson from Sterling’s team said: “Following a private conversation between coach and player, a mutual decision has been made for Raheem Sterling to sit out the upcoming internationals, focusing instead on recuperating his body in preparation for the upcoming season.”
It has been a difficult season for Sterling and Chelsea, the forward has scored nine goals while the Blues have struggled in the Premier League this campaign.
Eze in England squad,
Eberechi Eze has been one of the brightest sparks for Crystal Palace this season with a team-leading 10 goals and four assists, renewing calls for Gareth Southgate to consider him for an England call-up this summer.
The arrival of Hodgson back at Selhurst Park further fuelled the midfielder, who admitted he may be playing the best football of his life.
Asked how much he’s enjoying himself right now, Eze replied: “Loads, loads. I feel like I’ve got the freedom to play, to do my thing and I’m just happy to be playing and enjoying my football.
“I just feel like I’ve been given the freedom. I found it difficult at times, as a team we were going through a tough period so that’s natural, but since the gaffer has come in I feel like we have worked well together.
“I’ve obviously played with him before, so I understand what he wants and where he wants me to be, so I think that’s helped.
England squad
Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale, Sam Johnstone.
Defenders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Lewis Dunk, Marc Guehi, Harry Maguire, Tyrone Mings, Luke Shaw, John Stones, Kieran Trippier, Kyle Walker.
Midfielders: Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze, Conor Gallagher, Jordan Henderson, James Maddison, Kalvin Phillips, Declan Rice.
Forwards: Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Callum Wilson.
