Why former Man Utd starlet was handed shock England call-up as Kyle Walker and Jack Grealish decisions made

Angel Gomes has been handed a shock call-up to the England squad by interim manager Lee Carsley.

The former Manchester United youngster played a lot under Carsley at U21 level for the national side and could earn his first senior cap when they face the Republic of Ireland and Finland in Nations League matches next month.

Gomes has been named alongside United duo Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire, while forward Marcus Rashford misses out once again having not been named in the European Championship squad.

From a Man City perspective, Carsley has also decided to recall Jack Grealish after he missed out on a spot at Euro 2024 but Kyle Walker has been dropped. Rico Lewis has been rewarded for his fine start to the new season with a place at his expense, along with Newcastle full-back Tino Livramento.

Lille forward Gomes, Livramento, Nottingham Forest midfielder Gibbs-White and Chelsea winger Madueke all played for Carsley during his time as England U21 manager.

Gomes left Old Trafford four years ago after rejecting a new deal amid concerns over his playing time. He had been at the club since he was six but opted to join French club Lille in order to better his chances of making it in the professional game.

The attacking midfielder impressed during a season on loan with Portuguese side Boavista, before he established himself as a key player for Lille at first-team level. He has netted eight goals and registered 18 assists in 117 appearances for the French side.

On the decision to call up Gomes, Carsley said: “Angel’s very technical, controls the game with his skill and technique. Very determined, excellent attitude. Technically and tactically excellent. I think he’s a player that people are going to really be excited to see.”