England manager Gareth Southgate is set to navigate the upcoming Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia without the services of Jude Bellingham and Levi Colwill. Both players have withdrawn from the squad due to injuries, adding to the list of absentees that includes James Maddison, Callum Wilson, and Lewis Dunk. Marcus Rashford and Kalvin Phillips will join the squad later in the week, dealing with personal matters.


The England statement clarified the situation, stating: “Jude Bellingham and Levi Colwill will play no part in England’s forthcoming UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia. The pair arrived at St George’s Park for assessments on Monday but will now return to their clubs to continue their rehabilitation. Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford and Kalvin Phillips will meet up later this week owing to personal matters.”


Despite already securing their place at Euro 2024, there's still something on the line for England. The five qualifying group winners with the most points will join Germany in Pot 1 for the Euro 2024 draw. England currently holds 16 points, trailing behind France (18 points), Belgium (17 points), Slovenia (19 points), and Portugal (24). However, points for Slovenia and Portugal may be reduced due to their six-team qualifying groups, with results against the sixth-placed teams not considered for the rankings.


Jude Bellingham's absence from Real Madrid's recent victories over Valencia and Braga has led to speculation about his fitness. Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti expects Bellingham to undergo evaluation, stating, “He will go to be evaluated, but I expect him back [in Spain] again quickly. If he didn’t play today, he can’t play with England. He has to do specific work to strengthen his shoulder, and he will do that in the coming weeks. After the international break, I think he will be able to play again.”


Levi Colwill, a regular starter for Chelsea in the Premier League, missed the 4-4 draw with Manchester City over the weekend, further impacting England's defensive options.