The England national team faces a potential setback as defender John Stones missed training due to illness, just a day after being cleared to play. With their Euros opener against Serbia approaching, his absence from defensive drills is cause for concern. Stones had previously been substituted in England’s friendly against Iceland due to an injury scare. Despite participating in the first training session on Tuesday, it was later revealed that Stones had been feeling unwell even then.

There is uncertainty about his recovery in time for Thursday’s training session, and his absence could impact the team’s preparation. Gareth Southgate, the England manager, has expressed the pressure of the upcoming tournament, acknowledging that a failure to perform well at the Euros might lead to his departure from his position. In an interview, he indicated that the tournament could be his final chance to lead the team and noted the nature of international football, with many national coaches leaving their posts after a tournament. Southgate emphasized the need for success and the potential consequences of continued underperformance.