On Thursday, it seemed that Rangers star Jack Butland was going to be given a sensational recall to the England squad after starring at Ibrox – but it didn’t happen, leaving Ally McCoist surprised.
Butland, 31, has been sensational this season. Already amassing 47 appearances for Philippe Clement’s side, the nine-time England star has clocked up 23 clean sheets and conceded only 36 times this term.
He has been linked with an England recall for a few weeks. Danny Murphy predicted before the squad was announced that Gareth Southgate would stick with Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale in net.
He did just that, choosing the Gunners no.2 Ramsdale and Crystal Palace’s Sam Johnstone as cover for Everton and England no.1 Jordan Pickford, overlooking Butland for friendlies against Belgium and Brazil.
Rangers legend McCoist was on co-commentary duty for TNT Sports last night as Rangers lost 1-0 to Benfica at Ibrox, and he gave his take on Butland’s omission. McCoist said it had left him “surprised”.
“Mikel Arteta made it clear David Raya is his no.1 over Aaron Ramsdale. Jack Butland has been playing very, very well up here and I’m surprised he’s not in the squad [instead]. I’m disappointed for him.”
Ally McCoist surprised Rangers’ Jack Butland left out by England
It is a shame, and a reminder that to any Rangers or Celtic players who think that playing north of the border will get them into the England squad, are wrong. If any were to do it, Butland was in with a shout.
His form has been superb, and it is not like England are blessed with goalkeepers. Especially ones in-form, playing regularly. Not just domestically, but in Europe. Overlooked, with Euro 2024 approaching.
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