Rashford, Mount and Pope drop out of England squad as Southgate bring in replacements

Man Utd's Marcus Rashford is one of three players to drop out of the England squad for their Euro 2024 qualifiers against Ukraine and Italy.

Rashford has been on fire for the Red Devils this season, scoring 27 goals in 44 appearances in all competitions.

The 25-year-old fell out of favor under Gareth Southgate during a difficult 2021-22 campaign, but has re-established himself as a crucial player for his country.

The Football Association confirmed on Monday that Rashford had pulled out of the Three Lions squad for this month's fixtures.

Rashford suffered a knock in Man Utd's FA Cup quarter-final win over Fulham and will remain with his club for the break.

In addition to the 25-year-old striker, Chelsea's Mason Mount has withdrawn from the England squad.

Mount has not featured in any of the Blues' last three Premier League games.

It has been a poor campaign for the 24-year-old, whose inclusion in the England squad has been scrutinized by many.

Mount will remain with Chelsea during the international break to receive treatment.

It has also been confirmed that Gareth Southgate will not be calling a replacement for the two outfielders.

One player who withdrew and was substituted is Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope.

Pope missed the majority of training sessions last week for the Magpies but was able to play the full 90 minutes against Nottingham Forest on Friday night.

The former Burnley keeper was due to join fellow goalkeepers Aaron Ramsdale and Jordan Pickford, but his place was taken by Tottenham's Fraser Forster.

Forster hasn't played for his country since 2016, but has featured 13 times for Spurs this season as he comes on as a substitute. 1 and club captain, Hugo Lloris.

England begin their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign against Italy in Naples on Thursday before a clash against Ukraine at Wembley on Sunday.

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