Erik ten Hag signing who never made Manchester United debut in line for surprise call-up

Gareth Southgate says former Manchester United goalkeeper Jack Butland is in contention for another England call-up ahead of next month’s friendlies amid a shortage of active back-up options to Jordan Pickford.

Butland signed for United in January 2023 but failed to make his debut before securing a move to Rangers from parent club Crystal Palace over the summer. The 30-year-old has played 38 matches this season, which is more than double of his combined total over the previous three campaigns.

Butland, who was brought in by Erik ten Hag after Martin Dubravka’s loan from Newcastle United was ended early, has nine senior caps for his country but has not been included in a squad for more than four years and hasn't played since a 1-0 friendly win over Switzerland in November 2018.

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However, Southgate has hinted that he could be in line for an outside shock return given usual back-ups Sam Johnstone of Palace and Aaron Rasmdale of Arsenal are struggling for game time while Nick Pope is injured.

Burnley’s James Trafford and Palace shot-stopper Dean Henderson, formerly of United, are other likely options but Southgate says Butland is not out of the picture with England goalkeeping coach Martyn Margetson putting the former Stoke City ‘keeper back on his shortlist.

Southgate said of goalkeeper selection ahead of March’s fixtures: “It is up in the air. I can’t deny that so again we have to make sure we’re watching everybody – Jack Butland included because he’s obviously playing at a big club and is an experienced keeper.

“It’s not an ideal situation with Aaron not playing, Sam at the moment