Gareth Southgate
Sam Johnstone said “We obviously have an injury to Jordan which has created a space in the squad,” explained Southgate, who revealed Newcastle keeper Karl Darlow was also in his thoughts. Karl Darlow has had a very good season for Newcastle and has found himself out of the team [after being replaced by Martin Dúbravka] at just the wrong time. Sam Johnstone, in a team who have had a difficult season, has kept up a very good level of performance. He’s comfortable in possession, as well as keeping the ball out of his net, which is important to us. And he’s someone we worked with briefly with the under-21s, so we know a little about him. I think his recent performances, in particular recently, have been very good. It’s a great opportunity for him.”
Johnstone, who has impressed despite the Baggies struggles this season, has received his maiden call-up following an injury to England number one Jordan Pickford. Dean Henderson and Nick Pope are the other keepers in the squad to face San Marino, Albania and Poland in World Cup qualifiers later this month.
