Ivan Toney is one of five players to be left out of England’s 23-man squad for their clash with Italy tonight.
The Brentford striker has earned a deserved call-up to Gareth Southgate’s side after an impressive start to the campaign.
In eight appearances so far this season, the striker has bagged five goals and three assists for Thomas Frank’s side, earning him his first international call-up.
However, it looks like he will have to wait for his England debut after being left out of the matchday squad for the UEFA Nations League clash at the San Siro – a game which will be shown live on talkSPORT.
That leaves Harry Kane and Tammy Abraham as the only centre-forwards available for the game.
Toney isn’t the only notable absentee, with Marc Guehi, Ben Chilwell, Jordan Henderson and John Stones also absent.
Guehi and Chilwell will both be disappointed not to qualify for the clash at the San Siro, but the absences of Henderson and Stones are a little easier to explain.
The Liverpool midfielder only recently returned to fitness and entered the squad as a late replacement for Kalvin Phillips who faces the prospect of an extended spell on the sidelines through injury At the shoulder.
As for the Stones, the Manchester City defender is serving a one-game ban and could return for Monday’s clash with Germany at Wembley Stadium.
While Southgate’s starting XI have yet to be confirmed, it is understood Harry Maguire and Jude Bellingham are set to start against Italy as the Three Lions seek revenge against Italy after their final victory at the Premier League. Euro 2020.
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