The Three Lions travel to Poland to take on Ukraine in a qualifying match for next year’s Euros, before a friendly against Scotland in Glasgow to mark the 150th anniversary of the first fixture between the two sides.

Sterling has started the season incredibly well for Chelsea, netting twice and assisting once in the win over Luton Town last week. He has looked sharp and dangerous out wide on the right, but Southgate says he has fallen short of a call-up due to strong competition.

‘It is a difficult call. Raheem is not happy about it and I understand that, as he is an important player for us,’ Southgate said when briefing the media this afternoon.

‘He has been an important player for us but, in our opinion, we have, in those attacking areas just behind the no.9, got a lot of competition for places and I think all of those players have started the season well and have certainly done really well with us in recent games.’

It is the third England camp in succession that Raheem will miss.

‘Well he was not available for the last two so of course that has given other people the opportunity to play well and to establish themselves in the group,’ he said.

‘It is really good to see Raheem doing so well. He looks in good condition and he looks hungry. I am convinced he is going to have an excellent season for Chelsea. There is no doubt about that.’