Harry Maguire and Marcus Rashford will be kept busy over the forthcoming international break, as Gareth Southgate has called them up for England duty.
The Manchester United duo haven’t been in overly good form, but the manager has still opted to include them in his 26-man Three Lions squad.
A notable omission from United in the squad is Mason Mount, who was previously one of Southgate’s most trusted lieutenants. However, the manager will be well aware that the midfielder has just returned from a lengthy injury, and added – perhaps unnecessary – game time may not help his case while still returning to full match fitness.
England start their action with a friendly against Australia on Friday, October 13 at Wembley, before playing one Euro 2024 qualifier against Italy on Tuesday, October 17 – also at home – in a replay of the tournament’s final in July 2021. We all know how that one ended.
How the Reds fare heading into the break
Rashford has overseen a slow start to the season, scoring just one goal in nine appearances thus far. Erik ten Hag is confident that the forward’s form will pick up as the term goes on.
As for Maguire, he has been called into action recently due to injuries in United’s backline. Lisandro Martinez’s long-term absence could see the 30-year-old granted regular game time.