Emile Smith Rowe given first England call-up

Arsenal youngster Emile Smith Rowe has been handed his first England international call-up after Marcus Rashford withdrew from the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. The 21-year-old has been in great form for the Gunners recently, scoring four goals in eleven games so far this season. 

He also netted the winner against Watford for the Gunners that earned them all three points heading into the international break. Alongside Marcus Rashford, Mason Mount, James Ward-Prowse and Luke Shaw have also been forced to withdraw from Gareth Southgate’s squad. 

The FA released an official statement about the issue that reads: 

‘Emile Smith Rowe has received his first call-up to the England senior men’s squad.

‘The Arsenal forward arrived at St. George’s Park on Monday having initially been scheduled to join the MU21s in Burnley.

‘However, Marcus Rashford, James Ward-Prowse, Mason Mount and Luke Shaw have not reported for international duty.

‘Rashford will remain with Manchester United in order to concentrate on regaining full fitness while Ward-Prowse is ruled out of the forthcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers through illness.

‘Mount’s arrival has been delayed due to recent dental surgery and he will continue to be monitored in the coming days, as will Shaw who is currently following concussion protocol at his club.’

Mason Greenwood, Luke Shaw and Marcus Rashford are all sitting out the upcoming international break to focus on their recovery. England will face Albania and San Marino in the next weeks as part of the World Cup qualifiers.