Rangers: BBC Sport journalist shocked by England snub of ‘excellent’ Jack Butland
Rangers star Jack Butland missing out on an England call-up has shocked BBC Sport journalist Phil McNulty.
Having missed out on a spot in the latest Three Lions squad, Butland was also overlooked after Crystal Palace ace Sam Johnstone withdrew through injury.
England manager Gareth Southgate has opted to promote Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford from the Under-21s.
“The call-up for James Trafford, who has had his struggles at Burnley this season, shows the current lack of alternatives after Crystal Palace’s Sam Johnstone pulled out of the current squad with an elbow injury and with Newcastle’s Nick Pope out with a long-term injury,” McNulty said on a BBC Sport Q&A.
“I was surprised Trafford was selected ahead of Jack Butland, who has played for England before and has had an excellent season at Rangers.”
Rangers star Jack Butland will be disappointed by England snub
Given his displays domestically and in Europe in a Rangers shirt, it seemed very likely that Butland would make a return to the England squad this month.
Southgate does have a settled number one in the form of Everton star Jordan Pickford, but Butland could have provided a superb option as back-up.
Instead, the manager opted for Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsdale and Crystal Palace’s Johnstone alongside Pickford for the friendly meetings with Brazil and Belgium.
Johnstone has since left the squad, while Ramsdale’s inclusion must surely be questioned given his lack of minutes for Arsenal this season.
In stark contrast, Butland has shone under Philippe Clement, helping the Gers push fierce rivals Celtic in the league and reach the last 16 of the Europa League.
The goalkeeper will undoubtedly be disappointed at failing to land a spot in the England squad, but a place at Euro 2024 this summer could still be on the cards.
In other Rangers news, Fabio Silva’s stock has risen higher after what happened for Portugal Under-21s recently.
For more Rangers news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.