Sam Johnstone, the Crystal Palace goalkeeper, is racing against time to recover from an elbow injury sustained during England duty. This setback puts his prospects of being selected for the Euro 2024 squad at risk.
On Sunday night, England confirmed that Sam Johnstone was one of three players who withdrew, alongside Harry Maguire and Kyle Walker, prior to Tuesday’s match against Belgium at Wembley.
The Football Association did not disclose the specific details regarding the injuries’ nature or severity at that time. They only stated that all three players, including Sam Johnstone, Harry Maguire, and Kyle Walker, would be returning to their respective clubs.
On Sunday night there was hope at Palace that Johnstone’s elbow injury wasn’t serious following initial discussions.
But after further talks, there are emerging concerns the problem is worse than first feared, raising concerns Johnstone could struggle to play again this season.
Mail Sport understands Johnstone was not carrying the injury when he reported for duty last Tuesday afternoon.
The news arrives as a huge blow to Crystal Palace boss Olivier Glasner, who had made Johnstone his No 1 since arriving as Roy Hodgson’s replacement. Dean Henderson is set to deputise in Johnstone’s absence.
But it arrives as a bigger blow to Johnstone, particularly if it means he misses the European Championship.
England manager Gareth Southgate faces a significant challenge regarding backup options for Jordan Pickford, who is set to begin Euro 2024 as England’s primary goalkeeper.
Sam Johnstone was becoming a strong contender to be Pickford’s backup, especially with Aaron Ramsdale not featuring regularly at Arsenal and Nick Pope dealing with a long-term injury at Newcastle. However, Johnstone’s recent injury setback has complicated this situation.
On Sunday, Gareth Southgate brought Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford into the squad as a replacement for Johnstone. Additionally, Jack Butland could also be considered as an option if Johnstone is unable to demonstrate his fitness in time.