Manchester United goalkeeper handed surprise international call-up for Euro 2024

Manchester United stopper Tom Heaton has joined England's Euro 2024 squad as a training goalkeeper for the duration of the tournament.

The 38-year-old has linked up with Gareth Southgate's 26-man squad and will travel to Germany with the Three Lions to provide training ground support to Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale and Dean Henderson.

Heaton won three England caps between 2016 and 2017 and was in the squads for Euro 2016 and the 2019 Nations League finals, so brings plenty of experience to the role.

"I am really pleased Tom has agreed to join us in Germany," said Southgate.

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"Experience tells us that a tournament can put a lot of demand on our goalkeeping group led by Martyn Margetson. Tom will play an invaluable role on the training pitch supporting Jordan, Aaron and Dean.

"Off the field as someone we all know well, he will add to the positive environment we are always looking to create. We are grateful to Manchester United for their support in making this happen."

Heaton added: "Incredibly honoured to be asked by Gareth to join the squad. To get the call to go to a major tournament, to help in any way I can and pass on my experience is a proud moment.

"We have a great squad, I’m excited and can't wait to join the group."

Heaton has recently returned from a post-season holiday after the end of the club season. He didn't play for United in 2023/24 and spent the year as third-choice goalkeeper behind Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir, but he has emerged as a key figure off the field under Erik ten Hag and took Bayindir under