Unlucky Jack Butland saw a second door open for an England call-up, only to have it shut on him right away.

But as he goes for a berth at Euro 2024, his most recent rejection may not be all that it looks. Record Sport claimed that the Rangers keeper was firmly back on the radar after an outstanding season at Ibrox, thus it was generally thought that he would be included in Gareth Southgate’s team for their March friendlies. Sam Johnstone was selected as third choice behind Jordan Pickford and Aaron Ramsdale, shocking Butland, despite reports from Sky Sports and other outlets the day the team was revealed that he HAD made the cut.

The ball returned to Butland’s court so he could try to qualify for the Euros, but on Sunday there was a fleeting suggestion that he could be needed this month after all. Butland seemed to be the obvious choice to replace Johnstone, who was forced out due to injury and is now receiving treatment at Crystal Palace.

However, he has once again been passed selection as Southgate chose James Trafford of Burnley, a decision that naturally sparked concerns. Trafford was left out of Vincent Kompany’s squad for Tuesday’s match against Belgium, presumably as a result of his bad performance. However, he has since rejoined the senior team.

And the solution is right there. Southgate would rather call up players from the 21s than search for clear senior alternatives when it comes to late call-ups. He has already done that with Tottenham youngster Alfie Devine and Manchester United’s Cobbie Mainoo this month. In September, the latter also spent time with the team. Under ordinary conditions, the latter player would undoubtedly be well down the pecking order.

Should Johnstone’s injury prevent him from playing for an extended period of time, Southgate will have to start looking for a new third option. And although Trafford could be that, the fact that he was brought in as a late substitute doesn’t necessarily mean Southgate is considering him as the first choice.

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