Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s planned early England exit clarified as Thomas Tuchel outlines squad departures | OneFootball

Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s early departure from the England camp was pre-planned and not performance-related, yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk understands.

The Leeds United striker earned a first England call-up in five years for the final international break before this summer’s World Cup, rewarded for a fine debut season at Elland Road with 10 Premier League goals.

Thomas Tuchel named a 35-man squad for Friday’s friendly against Uruguay, with first-team regulars, Harry Kane included, given the night off. Dominic Solanke started, Calvert-Lewin came on after 56 minutes and headed wide from a Cole Palmer free-kick on 70 minutes. Ben White put England ahead before Federico Valverde’s penalty sealed a 1-1 draw.

As England’s senior core reconvened for Japan, eight players returned to their clubs, among them Calvert-Lewin, while Solanke stayed to support the returning Kane. There was no suggestion of any fitness concern for the Leeds forward.

Previewing Japan, Tuchel addressed a spate of withdrawals, focusing on injuries. He also noted that some players have already logged more minutes than last season and that several clubs remain in multiple competitions, considerations Calvert-Lewin fits.

Calvert-Lewin now returns to Leeds refreshed and in time for Sunday’s FA Cup quarter-final at West Ham, selection permitting under Daniel Farke. The 29-year-old is also set for a crucial Premier League run-in, with seven matches remaining to secure survival.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk