Brighton defender, Lewis Dunk has withdrawn from the latest England squad, due to injury.
Despite having been named as an eventually unused substitute in Brighton’s 2-1 loss at Aston Villa in their final match of this season, Dunk has struggled with a minor injury in recent weeks amidst an injury crisis amongst Brighton’s first-team squad.
Following medical advice, Dunk has since decided to withdraw from England’s squad for UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia.
Explaining the circumstances behind his decision to withdraw after having earned his first call-up since November 2018, Dunk commented: “I was proud to be recalled to the England squad. My first England cap remains one of the proudest moments of my career. I never gave up hope, and I hope that opportunity will come again.
“I’m sorry it won’t be this summer but at the end of the season, a few of us had to step up to achieve our aim of European football.
“A few of us were playing on adrenaline, pushing ourselves through games. I had a couple of injury issues, but our aim was to secure that top six place and create history.”
Dunk added that he has held discussions with England manager, Gareth Southgate after Brighton secured Europa Leagur qualification, where both Dunk and Southgate determined that he should prioritise his fitness.
The 31 year-old defender proceeded to explain his discussion with Southgate, as he continued: “I explained that I thought I might not be fit in time for the games against Malta and North Macedonia. I didn’t want to mess him around for two important qualifiers for the country.
“He was excellent with me, told me to take as long as possible and give myself the best chance to be part of the squad. I’d like to thank him for that support, and wish the squad well for the two games.”
Brighton have confirmed that Dunk is set to be available for pre-season, during which the club will take part in a Premier League Summer Series in USA.
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