Gareth Southgate has told Manchester United’s World Cup hopefuls they have “a lot to do” to earn a recall to his squad.
Harry Maguire is the only Red Devils player in the Three Lions fold for this month’s Nations League games with the defender’s selection sparking debate given his own lack of club form.
Luke Shaw was a mainstay in the England side that reached the Euro 2020 final, the left-back scoring the opener in the Wembley defeat to Italy, but he struggled for fitness last season.
Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho were also part of that squad yet lost their places during subpar seasons at Old Trafford. Dean Henderson has not played since his single cap in 2020.
Southgate told reporters: “We've only got one [United player] with us. They've got a lot to do to get back in the squad.”
Erik ten Hag has taken over as United’s new manager and will contend with a Europa League group stage before the club campaign is halted in mid-November for the 2022 World Cup.
Southgate added: “I think the lower the load then of course the less likely for injuries and the hope that players can be that little bit sharper but there's no way of knowing. Some players are at their best when they’re in a rhythm of playing.”
