Arsenal star withdraws from England squad with COVID-19

Bukayo Saka will not be able to play for the Three Lions in their upcoming friendly games.

England will face Switzerland on Saturday as part of their preparation for the Qatar World Cup. Gareth Southgate hopes to find his best squad ahead of the summer games. However, the Three Lions must play without one of their most promising youngsters.

Bukayo Saka has tested positive for COVID-19, missing England’s upcoming friendlies against Switzerland and Ivory Coast.

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The Three Lions star tweeted: “I am gutted to withdraw from @England camp. But I have tested positive for Covid-19, and I will be isolating until I am negative.

“I’ll be supporting the boys from home this weekend and I can’t wait to be being back doing what I love soon”

According to Sky Sports, Southgate will not call up a replacement for the Arsenal star.

Saka’s absence will be a significant blow to England’s preparation campaign ahead of the World Cup. The 20-year-old has made 33 appearances for the Gunners this season, scoring ten goals and providing five assists.

Following his heartbreaking penalty miss in the Euro 2020 final, Saka is motivated to bring his impressive Arsenal form to England. However, the new setback might provide an opportunity for Southgate to experiment with his well-equipped squad ahead of the summer tournament.