Bukayo Saka: Arsenal forward withdraws from England squad ahead of Brazil, Belgium friendlies with injury

Bukayo Saka has withdrawn from the England squad as a precaution after arriving at St George’s Park with an injury.

The Arsenal winger was called up by England manager Gareth Southgate for friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium, but had been unable to train with the rest of the 25-player squad.

He will now return to Arsenal for the remainder of the international break for continued rehabilitation on his injury.

Southgate will not select a replacement for Saka, having already given Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo a late call-up from the under-21 team earlier this week.

Saka’s withdrawal is a setback for both Southgate and Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.

England take on Brazil at Wembley on Saturday, before travelling to Belgium for a match on Tuesday, March 26.

It is the last international camp before Southgate selects his squad for Euro 2024 in Germany, which Saka is expected to make.

Arsenal, meanwhile, have a top-of-the-table Premier League clash against Manchester City on Sunday, March 31.

Saka has been crucial to Arsenal’s charge to the top of the table, scoring 13 goals and setting up eight more so far this season.

He recently said his team had "a lot of belief" that they could defeat City at the Etihad.

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