Former Sunderland man lands shock call-up to England squad ahead of Uruguay and Japan friendlies | OneFootball

Former Sunderland and Middlesbrough keeper Jason Steele has earned a surprise call-up to England’s 35-man squad for this month’s friendlies against Uruguay and Japan.

The FA said in a statement that his inclusion creates the possibility of him joining the World Cup squad in the summer as a training goalkeeper.

The Newton Aycliffe-born stopper joined Sunderland from Blackburn Rovers in 2017 as the club adjusted to Championship life after relegation under David Moyes. He started the first four league games under Simon Grayson and made 18 appearances in all competitions during a season that ended in a second straight relegation to the third tier.

Steele left before the following campaign, signing for Brighton and Hove Albion on a free. He has made over 60 appearances for the Seagulls and featured in their 2023/24 Europa League run, although he has not played in the Premier League this season. The 35-year-old has previously represented England at several youth levels and this is his first senior call-up.

Tuchel has split the camp into two stages, first bringing in players who have not featured regularly to broaden competition for places on the plane to the United States. From Friday and Saturday a further group of around 10 or 11 rested players will join, before a refreshed mix goes into the second match.

Source: Sunderland Echo