Lee Carsley facing England crisis with more stars tipped to pull out than ever before after huge Premier League weekend
ENGLAND interim boss Lee Carsley could face a squad crisis during the international break, with a number of key players expected to withdraw.
Carsley will take charge of England for the final time this week.
The Three Lions conclude their Nations League campaign with a trip to Greece on Thursday followed by a home clash with Ireland on Sunday.
But they may be forced to play without some important stars.
Mikel Arteta cast doubt over the inclusion of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice following Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Sunday.
Trent Alexander-Arnold suffered a hamstring strain against Aston Villa on Saturday and is now expected to withdraw from the England squad.
Jack Grealish didn’t appear for Manchester City at the weekend due to a fitness issue which could prevent him from travelling to camp.
Kyle Walker could also miss out due to a knee injury.
England legend Alan Shearer is now convinced that several Premier League stars will withdraw in order to rest.
Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, he explained: “See what happens at international level now with a lot of players, not only Arsenal.
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“I think, don’t be surprised if we see a load of pull-outs from international players from their countries.
“Rather than going to play in the Nations League or wherever, you’ll actually see them having a bit of a rest.
“I’m sure they’ll come out and say they’re maybe injured or whatever but it’ll be more to have a rest I think.
“I think there will be loads of them over the next couple of days.”
Gary Lineker went on to suggest that more England players could withdraw from international duty because there is no incentive to impress interim boss Carsley.
He added: “Possibly with England as well in particular because you’re going to a manager who’s not going to be there, so it’s not like you’ve got to go and impress or anything like that.”
There have been three international breaks already this season – one each month.
Last week, Carsley revealed that some replacements are on standby if needed.
After Sunday’s match against Greece, the Under-21s manager will step down from his interim position with the senior team.
Thomas Tuchel will then take over on a full-time basis in January.