In a significant development for English football, Tottenham Hotspur striker Dominic Solanke has been named in the England squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Greece and Finland. This selection marks Solanke's first call-up to the national team since his debut in 2017.
Solanke, who joined Tottenham from AFC Bournemouth in a deal worth up to 65 million in August 2024, has been in impressive form. He has scored in each of his last three games for Spurs, contributing to his inclusion in interim manager Lee Carsleys squad. This return to the national team comes seven years after Solanke made his only senior cap, appearing as a substitute in a friendly against Brazil at Wembley Stadium in November 2017.
Squad Selection and Notable Omissions
The England squad for the Nations League matches also sees the return of several key players. Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham, who missed the previous fixtures due to injury, is back in the squad. Additionally, Manchester City duo Kyle Walker and Phil Foden, along with Chelseas Cole Palmer, have been recalled. Ollie Watkins of Aston Villa also returns to the squad after withdrawing from the previous selection.
Notably, some prominent players have been left out of the squad. Harry Maguire of Manchester United, who was a consistent choice under former manager Gareth Southgate, has been omitted due to a recent calf injury. James Maddison of Tottenham and Eberechi Eze of Crystal Palace have also been excluded from the current selection. Morgan Rogers of Aston Villa, despite his impressive start to the season, did not receive a call-up.
Lee Carsleys Interim Tenure
Lee Carsley, who took over as interim manager following Gareth Southgates resignation after Euro 2024, has had a positive start to his tenure. England secured wins against Finland and the Republic of Ireland in the previous Nations League games. Carsley emphasized that his focus is on the upcoming matches and that the players left out of the squad are still part of the larger plan.
Carsley praised Solanke, stating, 'Doms a player that Im fully aware of, having worked with him in the past. He was really close to being in the last squad, obviously got injured just before selection. Hes a player thats done so well at Bournemouth, and now hes taken that form into Spurs.' Solankes inclusion is seen as a testament to his hard work and form since joining Tottenham.
Upcoming Matches
England is set to host Greece at Wembley Stadium on October 10, followed by a match against Finland in Helsinki on October 13. The team is currently second in Group B2 with six points from two games, behind Greece on goal difference. Finland and Ireland are yet to earn any points in the group.
For more information on Dominic Solankes career and achievements, you can visit his Wikipedia page.
