Tottenham Hotspur’s Harry Winks did not make the England squad.
Harry Winks has returned to training for Tottenham ahead of the Champions League final.
It’s a welcome boost for Spurs, but it was not enough to earn him a place in England’s final 23 man squad for the UEFA Nations League finals.
Winks missed out on the World Cup last summer through injury and can count himself unfortunate to suffer the same fate again.
But while this is an obvious disappointment for Winks, it works out to both his and the club’s benefit too.
Firstly the UEFA Nations League lacks the prestige of a World Cup or European Championships. Winks should lose no sleep over missing out, he will have further opportunities.
He has obviously had to push himself just to get back in contention for the Champions League final. For a one off game of this magnitude, it’s worth it.
But after that, Winks can rest up, and should do ahead of pre-season.
Spurs need him fit and healthy for next season, with midfield an area they want to improve. A fully fit Winks is essential to that, regardless of what transfer activity may take place.
The club should be relieved that Gareth Southgate has actually done them a favour, by decreasing Winks’ chances of getting injured again.
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