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Mason Greenwood will be a notable absentee when Gareth Southgate names his England squad for October's World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Hungary next week, following an unusual request from Manchester United.
Southgate is eager to recall Greenwood for the first time since he was sent home, along with Phil Foden, for breaking the FA's Covid-19 protocols by inviting visitors back to the team hotel in Iceland last September.
But Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has asked the England manager to delay Greenwood's international return. The 19-year-old has made an impressive start to the season for United, scoring three goals in six appearances, but Solskjaer believes — given Greenwood's experience with England, his international career needs to be handled with care.
England manager Gareth Southgate (R) has been keen to incorporate Mason Greenwood again
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (third from L) has stepped in as he wants Greenwood to have more time
There are concerns at Old Trafford that another England call-up at this stage would put the teenager under increased pressure and scrutiny, at a time when he is still establishing himself at United, as well as adding to his workload.
Greenwood's situation is potentially complicated by interest from Jamaica, whom he remains eligible to represent through his parents until he has made three competitive appearances for England, but that is not a factor in his non-selection.
The player and his family have reassured the FA that he wants to play for England and his return to the squad is viewed as only a matter of time. Greenwood will not be considered for Under
