Man United player unexpectedly called up to the England squad for Euro 2024
3 min read
The England national team has confirmed that Man United player Tom Heaton will join the squad for Euro 2024 as a goalkeeper coach.
In a surprising turn of events, veteran goalkeeper Tom Heaton of Man United player has been called up to the England squad ahead of Euro 2024. Although not included in the official playing roster by manager Gareth Southgate, Heaton has been enlisted to serve in a special role as a goalkeeping coach.
According to the FA’s announcement, Heaton will be present in Germany to support and mentor England’s three main goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale, and Dean Henderson throughout the tournament. Despite only featuring for Manchester United in the League Cup this season, Heaton’s extensive career experience is expected to add significant value.
Commenting on the decision to include Heaton in the coaching staff, Southgate said: “I am delighted that Tom has agreed to join us in Germany. Experience shows that a major tournament places many demands on our goalkeeping group. Tom will play an invaluable role on the training pitch, supporting Jordan, Aaron, and Dean. Additionally, with his outstanding character, he will add to the positive environment of the squad.”
For his part, Heaton expressed his honor and excitement upon receiving the invitation from Southgate: “I am very proud to be asked to join the team. Participating in a major tournament, supporting, and sharing my experience is a fantastic moment in my career. We have an excellent squad, and I am eager to be part of England’s journey in this Euro.”
Despite playing a secondary role at Manchester United, Heaton has previously earned three caps for the England national team, including his debut against Australia in 2016 and his last appearance in 2017. Before joining Manchester United in 2021, the 1985-born goalkeeper played for clubs such as Burnley, Aston Villa, Bristol City, and Cardiff.
By bringing Heaton into the coaching staff, the England team management has made a surprising but commendable decision. The trio of goalkeepers Pickford, Ramsdale, and Henderson are relatively young, so Heaton’s experience will be beneficial in both preparation and official matches.
In addition to Heaton, Manchester United has two other players, Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo, called up to the England squad for Euro 2024. Defender Harry Maguire was included in the preliminary list but was ultimately left out due to unresolved injury issues.
The England team is focused on winning the Euro championship after a 58-year wait since their last triumph at the 1966 World Cup. They will begin their Euro 2024 campaign against Serbia in the early hours of June 17. Previously, Gareth Southgate’s squad fell short in their pursuit of the prestigious trophy at Euro 2020 and the 2022 World Cup.
