September 5th 2024.
Kyle Walker recently shared his feelings about not being called up to the England squad for the upcoming Nations League matches. Despite being disappointed, the vice-captain understands that interim manager Lee Carsley has made the right decision. Carsley, who previously managed the U21s, has chosen a squad with some new faces, including uncapped players Tino Livramento, Morgan Gibbs-White, Angel Gomes, and Noni Madueke. This selection has also left out some of Gareth Southgate's regular players, such as Walker, Jordan Henderson, and Kieran Trippier, who has retired from international football.
Walker's exclusion from the squad comes as a surprise, considering he has been a consistent player for his country for the past eight years, participating in three European Championships and two World Cups. With 90 caps, he is one of the most experienced players in the history of the England team and was even the vice-captain during the Euro 2024 final, where England reached the final. Walker shared his thoughts on the situation on his podcast, You'll Never Beat Kyle Walker, saying, "Obviously with a new manager and everything like that, you are always expecting a few changes. I'm obviously disappointed because representing your country is always the highest honor, especially for England when we are doing so well. But I haven't played many minutes this season, so you have to take it on the chin."
Carsley, who is currently in temporary charge of the England team, personally reached out to Walker before announcing the squad. Walker appreciated the courtesy and had a conversation with Carsley about the decision. He said, "I said, 'I'm on 90 caps and I want to be involved.' But I think it is based on performances and merit. I think it's the right call. I need to make sure that I am proving him wrong in the near future."
In Walker's place, Carsley has chosen a different right-back from Manchester City, Rico Lewis, along with Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold and Newcastle's Livramento. The 34-year-old Walker will now have to wait for his next opportunity to represent his country, which will be on September 14 when his club team, Manchester City, takes on Brentford in the Premier League.
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