According to a report from The Athletic, Sam Johnstone, England’s backup goalkeeper, will be absent from Euro 2024 due to undergoing surgery on Wednesday morning. This unexpected development has surprised head coach Gareth Southgate, as Johnstone becomes the first injury setback for the team in this campaign. Originally slated to accompany Jordan Pickford to the tournament, Johnstone’s absence is a significant loss for the squad.
The absence of Crystal Palace’s goalkeeper underscores England’s challenge in the upcoming competition. Johnstone’s consistent performance throughout the season for his club had positioned him as a likely inclusion in Southgate’s final squad for the summer tournament in Germany. However, fate intervened as an injury sidelines him, depriving England of a valuable asset.
The injury woes for England extend beyond Johnstone. Players like Harry Maguire and Kyle Walker have also withdrawn from the squad, further complicating Southgate’s preparations. The trio’s absence from Tuesday’s friendly match against Belgium underscores the seriousness of the situation. Their departure from the camp on Sunday adds to the mounting concerns for the England coaching staff.
Johnstone’s injury occurred during a routine England workout on Sunday when he inadvertently injured his elbow while attempting to save a shot. The incident not only rules him out of Euro 2024 but also sidelines him for the remainder of the season. At 31 years old, this setback comes at a crucial juncture in his career, impacting both his club and international aspirations.
Despite the disappointment, Southgate and his team must regroup and adapt to the challenges ahead. The absence of key players like Johnstone necessitates adjustments in tactics and squad selection. It also provides an opportunity for other players to step up and fill the void left by their injured teammates.
Injuries are an unfortunate reality in sports, often disrupting the best-laid plans of teams and players alike. For England, the loss of Sam Johnstone serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of football and the need for depth and resilience within the squad. As they navigate through this setback, the team must remain focused and determined in their pursuit of success on the international stage.
