Raheem Sterling will sit out England's squad for the Euro qualifiers with Malta and North Macedonia.
Southgate has named his squad for the double-header and Sterling was the big-name omission from the party for next month’s upcoming games on June 16 and 19 respectively.
Chelsea winger Sterling was not included after talks with Gareth Southgate about his involvement in the qualifiers. The decision was made on the back of Sterling’s difficult first season at Stamford Bridge which has been blighted by a dip in form and injuries.
However, it is understood that Southgate sees Sterling as a key member of the England squad for the long term.
But Southgate believes it would be valuable for Sterling to get a rest at the end of the season and recharge his batteries.
The England boss did something similar with Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson for England’s Nations League games at the end of last season.
Equally, Sterling remains fully committed to England and wants to be a part of the next squad and for the build-up to Euro 2024.
Sterling, 27, has always been a vital part of Southgate’s squad and a big game player for England.
A representative of Sterling said: "Following a private conversation between coach and player, a mutual decision has been made for Raheem Sterling to sit out the upcoming internationals, focusing instead on recuperating his body in preparation for the upcoming season."
England players will be given a week's break after the domestic season ends with the Premier League before they have to report up for International duty.
Manchester City stars who will play in the Champions League final will report up two days after the game in Istanbul, being given time to take part in potential celebration parades.
It remains to be seen whether the likes of City stars like John Stones, Jack Grealish, Kyle Walker and Kalvin Phillips will play against Malta but North Macedonia will be tough opponents and a stern test.
