England have announced that Tom Heaton will join their Euro 2024 camp this summer as a training goalkeeper.
Hosts Germany kick-off the tournament against Scotland on Friday and the Three Lions will play Serbia two days later in Group C.
Gareth Southgate’s 26-man squad was revealed on Thursday, with Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale and Dean Henderson the three chosen goalkeepers.
However, a further addition in between the sticks has been made for England, although he won’t make an appearance at the Euros.
Heaton will travel with the rest of the squad to Germany and help with their goalkeeping preparations at their base camp.
The 38-year-old, who has been at Manchester United since 2021, has previously made earned three caps for England and was named in their squad for Euro 2016.
He arrives with a depth of experience to his name, including 116 Premier League appearances for Burnley and Aston Villa.
Speaking on Heaton, Southgate said: “I am really pleased Tom has agreed to join us in Germany.
“Experience tells us that a tournament can put a lot of demand on our goalkeeping group led by Martyn Margetson. Tom will play an invaluable role on the training pitch supporting Jordan, Aaron and Dean.
“Off the field as someone we all know well, he will add to the positive environment we are always looking to create. We are grateful to Manchester United for their support in making this happen.”
Taking to X after the announcement, Heaton said: “Incredibly honoured to be asked by Gareth to join the squad.
“To get the call to go to a major tournament, to help in anyway I can and pass on my experience is a proud moment We have a great squad, I’m excited and can’t wait to join the group.”
Heaton will work with Pickford, Ramsdale and Henderson in Germany as England continue to eye their first silverware since 1966.
Southgate’s side played two pre-tournament friendlies last week, beating Bosnia and Herzegovina 3-0 before losing 1-0 to Iceland.
England first face Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday before they play Denmark in Frankfurt and Slovenia in Cologne.
News Summary:
- Manchester United’s Tom Heaton given surprise England role for Euro 2024
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