Tariq Lamptey excused from England U-21 squad over Ghana approach

England U-21 Coach Lee Carsley has confirmed UK born Ghanaian right-back has asked to be excused from the Young Three Lions as he ponders over his nationality switch following an approach by the GFA.

The 21-year-old, who is weighing his options, is more likely to start games for the Black Stars at the 2022 World Cup but may be relegated to the bench in the Three Lions squad due to the highly-rated right-back options available including Kyle Walker, Trent Arnold, Reece James and Karien Trippier.

Though Lee Carsley explains England respects the decision of the Brighton and Hove Albion speedster, they will not back down on their pursuit for the youngster.

“There’s an issue over his dual nationality. He’s had an approach. It’s something he’s considering at the minute. He’s asked to be left out of the squad for a bit of head space. He’s not switched, it’s not cemented or anything like that,” Coach Lee Carsley said.

“But he’s had an approach, we have to respect that. We’ve made it clear how important we see him to us. I know the seniors have as well. It’s not something that we’ve given up on. Tariq is fully aware of how important we see him.”