Gareth Southgate gives update on potential Mason Greenwood England return as Euro 2024 decision made

Gareth Southgate has indicated that Mason Greenwood could still have a future with the England squad - but the topic will only be looked at after Euro 2024 ends.

Greenwood hasn't played for the Three Lions since September 2020, when he made his debut during a Nations League match against Iceland.

That was to be his only cap for England under Southgate, as he and Phil Foden were subsequently sent home for breaching COVID-19 restrictions.

While Foden was eventually restored to the squad the following summer, Greenwood was not picked, with Southgate suggesting that the forward's development was better served staying at Manchester United at that particular stage.

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In January 2022, Greenwood was suspended by United after his arrest on suspicion of rape and assault.

He was charged that October with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

In February last year, the charges were discontinued by the Crown Prosecution Service, who stated that 'a combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light meant there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction'.

Following their own internal investigation, United concluded that Greenwood would leave the club by mutual consent. He subsequently joined La Liga side Getafe on loan on transfer deadline day in August.

Since arriving in Spain, the 22-year-old has scored six goals and provided five assists in La Liga. He has remained out of contention for England squads.

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Last month, new United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe said that the club would make a fresh decision on whether to keep Greenwood at Old Trafford, stating that the club will 'understand the facts not the hype' before coming to a 'fair decision on the basis of values'.

Southgate was asked about the possibility of Greenwood returning to the England fold, and responded: "Well, for me I don't think it's something for pre-Euros.

"I think allowing him to get his career going again abroad appears to have been a good move. But I have to say I have not tracked it closely.

"I think at this moment in time, it would be a big distraction for the team, and let's see where that leads next season.

"I would need to know more details about the whole thing before it was an option."

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