The Arsenal star will most likely miss the Three Lions’ upcoming friendly match.
England will face Switzerland in a friendly fixture on Saturday. Gareth Southgate’s side are starting their preparation campaign ahead of this summer’s World Cup. However, they will have to play without some of their best players this weekend.
In addition to Bukayo Saka, who withdrew from the England squad with COVID-19, the Three Lions will see another Gooner miss the upcoming game.
Speaking in a pre-match press conference, Southgate confirmed Emile Smith-Rowe had missed the final training session before the game.
“Emile didn’t train today, so I would think unlikely he’ll be involved tomorrow. Nothing too serious but we’ll check to see whether he can be involved.”
Asked about Raheem Sterling and Saka’s situations, the England boss said: “Raheem is absolutely fine. It was a shame to lose Bukayo but we’re back in those moments with Covid where there is a spike in the country and we’ve had the same.”
Saka confirmed his positive Covid test on Friday. The Arsenal starlet wrote on Instagram: “I am gutted to withdraw from England camp. ButI 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.”
Following their match against Switzerland, England will prepare to face Ivory Coast in their next friendly game on Tuesday. It is not yet clear whether Smith-Rowe can play for Southgate’s side against the Elephants.
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