Man City, Chelsea & Aston Villa stars called up to England squad

Manchester City star Rico Lewis has been called up to the senior England squad.

The 18-year-old joins ex-City attacker Cole Palmer and Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa in being late additions to the squad due to Lewis Dunk, James Maddison and Callum Wilson dropping out through injury.

Lewis, who was an unused substitute in Sunday’s pulsating 4-4 draw at Chelsea, has received his first call-up to the senior group and joins City team-mates Kyle Walker, Kalvin Phillips, Jack Grealish and Phil Foden in Gareth Southgate’s squad.

Lewis was asked just last week about his hopes of making a late push to be involved the Euro 2024 roster. “It’s a dream that every player will want to play at a big tournament with their country,” Lewis admitted on Tuesday.

“But I am just focusing on what I can do to better myself and if that comes with it, it comes with it. If it doesn't, it doesn’t. It’s not something I’m focusing on, I’m just trying to focus on the things I can improve on in myself. There are so many things I can get better at.”

Lewis has made 10 appearances this season and particularly impressed in the Champions League, playing starring roles in the 3-1 victories over RB Leipzig and Young Boys in October. The City academy graduate has proved adept at operating as either a full-back or in midfield.

He could make his England debut in Friday’s game against Malta, or in next week’s trip to North Macedonia. The Three Lions have already secured their place at Euro 2024, so could rotate over the upcoming double header.