Lee Carsley has dismissed Pep Guardiola’s claims as “rubbish” after Jack Grealish was called up to the England squad, despite Guardiola insisting the midfielder was injured.
Guardiola was fuming when interim England manager Carsley included Grealish in the squad for the Nations League matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland. Grealish, who had been sidelined for nearly a month with an injury, had just started light training late last week. Guardiola expressed frustration, claiming Carsley hadn’t consulted him regarding Grealish’s fitness.
However, Carsley has fired back, clarifying that England’s medical team was in regular contact with Manchester City regarding Grealish. Carsley said, “The medical teams are constantly talking throughout squad selection, regardless of whether there are games or not. We are constantly getting updates. The medical departments have brilliant communication between club and country.”
He further explained, “It was always the case that we would bring in players who might not be fit to have them assessed. Jack was one of them. He was assessed and sent back – and it was as clear as that.”
Despite eight players withdrawing due to injury, Carsley is focusing on those available for England’s must-win game against Greece on Thursday in Athens.
