Southgate leaves Sterling out of England squad

Raheem Sterling has been left out of England’s squad for matches against Scotland and Ukraine.

Sterling was unavailable for the previous two squads and was expected to return to the fold, having made an excellent start to the season for Chelsea.

But England boss Gareth Southgate has opted not to include him.

Southgate explained: “He was not available for the last two (squads) and of course that’s given other people the opportunity

“We’re really pleased with the group and to bring Raheem back in we’ve got to leave somebody else out.

“On the back of three games, I didn’t think anybody 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 and he’s obviously an important player for us.

“But we have, in those attacking positions behind the number nine, a lot of competition for places.”

Southgate indicated that he had spoken to Sterling about the decision.

He said: “It’s a difficult call and Raheem’s not particularly happy about it. I understand that, because he’s an important player for us.

“I’m convinced he’s going to have an excellent season for Chelsea. There’s no doubt about that.”

Levi Colwill has received his first call-up and there are also places in the squad for his Chelsea team-mates Ben Chilwell and Conor Gallagher.

The squad also includes Arsenal’s Ealing-born attacker Bukayo Saka.