Why Dominic Calvert-Lewin left England camp early as Thomas Tuchel explains squad exits | OneFootball

Dominic Calvert-Lewin left England’s camp early in a pre-planned move that was not performance related, according to yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk.

The Leeds striker earned a first England call-up in five years, rewarded for a strong debut season with 10 Premier League goals.

England named a 35-man group, with the core, Harry Kane included, resting for Friday’s Uruguay friendly. Dominic Solanke started, Calvert-Lewin came on after 56 minutes and headed a close-range chance wide on 70. Ben White opened the scoring, then a Federico Valverde penalty saw it finish 1-1.

As expected, the first-choice unit rejoined before Japan and eight players returned to their clubs. Calvert-Lewin was among them, Solanke stayed, and there was no suggestion of any fitness issue for the Leeds forward.

Other departures included Arsenal trio Noni Madueke, Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice for medical checks, plus John Stones and Adam Wharton after knocks.

England boss Thomas Tuchel called the exits the reality of late March, citing heavier minutes and clubs still in multiple competitions, circumstances that apply to Calvert-Lewin. He said striker contingencies were not close and confirmed Kane would lead against Japan.

Calvert-Lewin returns to Leeds well rested and in time for Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final at West Ham, should Daniel Farke go full strength, and for a seven-game survival run-in.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk