Alexander-Arnold dropped, Lingard returns to Three Lions squad for World Cup qualifiers

England have recalled on-loan West Ham United midfielder Jesse Lingard and also named Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins in their 26-man squad for this month’s World Cup qualifying matches against San Marino, Albania and Poland.

Lingard, who has 24 caps but has not featured since 2019, has been one of West Ham’s standout players since arriving from Manchester United on loan in January, with four goals and two assists in six matches.

Watkins was rewarded with his first senior call-up for an impressive campaign in which he has scored 10 goals in 27 Premier League matches for Villa.

England manager Gareth Southgate named in-form Manchester United fullback Luke Shaw and Manchester City’s John Stones as part of his back line, while leaving out Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold.

England face San Marino on March 25 before Group I matches against Albania (March 28) and Poland (March 31).

Cover image – Michael Regan/Getty Images

©Reuters