England’s 26-year-old midfielder has left the national team’s training base and will travel back to England to be with his family and say goodbye to his father, the Football Association has confirmed.
The fan favourite was seen leaving the training ground shortly after receiving the news. He will not be part of the matchday squad for England’s game against Croatia.
A statement from the Federation
In a short statement, the governing body said the midfielder had been given permission to leave the squad immediately so that he could be with his loved ones during an extremely difficult time.
The Federation asked that the family’s privacy be respected and confirmed that the player will be fully supported by the team and staff for as long as he needs.
No timeline has been given for his return to the squad. Those close to the camp say that is entirely secondary to his family’s needs right now.
Out of the squad, but not out of mind
The 26-year-old had been expected to play a significant part against Croatia, and his absence is a blow to the manager’s plans. Nobody inside the camp is treating it as a football matter, however.
Team-mates are understood to have gathered around him before his departure, offering their support. Moments like these tend to bring a dressing room closer together, and England’s players are expected to carry the family’s loss with them into the game.
The manager is likely to reshuffle the midfield, with several options available. But the focus around the squad has been on the human side of the news rather than tactics or selection.
Why he matters to England supporters
Over the past few seasons, the midfielder has become one of the most popular figures in the national team. Supporters have taken to his energy, his work rate in the middle of the park and his willingness to put his body on the line for the shirt.
His progress at club level, culminating in a regular place in the England setup, has made him a symbol of what hard work and consistency can achieve. Many fans feel a personal connection to him, which explains the wave of messages that began appearing on social media as soon as news of his departure emerged.
Tributes poured in from supporters, former players and rival clubs, with football setting aside its tribalism to offer sympathy.
Football and family
Players at the top of the game spend long periods away from home, missing birthdays, holidays and everyday family moments. When a family emergency strikes during an international camp, the distance can feel unbearable.
That is why the Federation’s decision to send him home at once was widely welcomed. Mental health and wellbeing have become a much larger part of the conversation in elite sport, and situations like this one show why clubs and national associations must put the person ahead of the player.
Former internationals who have faced similar circumstances have spoken about how important it was to be allowed to leave without pressure or hesitation. Missing a game is a small price compared with the chance to say goodbye to a parent.
What happens next
The England midfielder is expected to remain with his family for the time being. Whether he rejoins the squad later in the camp or sits out further fixtures will depend entirely on his wishes and his family’s circumstances.
The England staff have made clear that the door is open whenever he is ready, and that no one will pressure him to return before he feels able.
Meanwhile, the squad will continue preparations for Croatia, a side with a reputation for technical quality and a proud record in major tournaments. The match will be tough, but England’s players know the emotional weight surrounding their absent team-mate may give them extra motivation.
The message from the stands
Fans are already planning tributes for the game. Supporters’ groups have discussed a round of applause and banners of support, and many are encouraging others to send messages through official channels.
For now, the football world is united in its message to the 26-year-old and his family: take all the time you need. The result against Croatia will matter, but it will matter far less than what he is facing at home.
Everyone at the national team stands with him and his family at this painful time.
