Hodgson adds Heaton but decides against winger call-up

Roy Hodgson has added Burnley goalkeeper Tom Heaton to his England squad but decided against calling up an additional winger.

Joe Hart and Raheem Sterling have both withdrawn from the squad for the upcoming friendlies against Germany and Holland after sustaining calf injuries in Manchester City’s derby defeat on Sunday.

Heaton joins Jack Butland and Fraser Forster as goalkeeping options for the two games, but Hodgson currently has no plans to add further outfield players to replace Sterling.

Heaton, the Clarets captain, is uncapped but has regularly featured in Hodgson’s squads over the past year. His form for promotion-chasing Burnley in the Championship has ensured he has remained in the frame.

Hodgson told the FA’s website: “Obviously it’s very disappointing for Joe and Raheem to suffer injuries which will rule them out of our games against Germany and Holland.

“They are important players in our squad and I wish them a speedy recovery.

“Tom has been with us on several occasions and I am welcoming him back into the fold.”

England face Germany in Berlin on Saturday before hosting Holland at Wembley next Tuesday in the next phase of their Euro 2016 preparations.

The Football Association has also announced that assistant manager Gary Neville will link up with the squad later than originally planned.

Neville is enduring a tough baptism in his new full-time role as Valencia head coach and wants to stay in Spain longer before resuming international duties.

The former Manchester United and England right-back will now join Hodgson’s group at their St George’s Park base on Thursday before travelling with them to Germany the following day.