Jack Butland’s Euro 2016 dream is over thanks to the broken ankle he suffered during England’s victory over Germany on Saturday night.
The 23-year-old goalkeeper, who has played four times for his country, was expected to go into the tournament as England’s second choice stopper behind Joe Hart.
But the Stoke number one confirmed to the club’s website that he will not return to action this season, and that he feels Euro 2016 “isn’t an option”.
“It is difficult because I have been working towards the Euros this summer, but I won’t be able to be part of that experience now,” he said.
“It isn’t the challenge that I expected or wanted this summer but I am going to approach it with the right mentality and learn from it, both physically and mentally.”
Today's scan revealed I've fractured my ankle, absolutely devasted! I'll be doing everything I can to get back fit as soon as I can! 👊🏼🙏🏼
— Jack Butland (@JackButland_One) March 27, 2016
Butland, who represented Team GB at the London Olympics in 2012, has kept 10 Premier League clean sheets this season as the Potters have solidified their position in the top half.
Burnley’s Tom Heaton has been called into the squad alongside Hart and Fraser Forster for the friendly against the Netherlands, and is the new favourite to take Butland’s place this summer.
Former Birmingham City man Butland, who took over as Stoke first choice after Asmir Begovic’s move to Chelsea, will have an operation on his ankle on Tuesday evening, but is remaining positive.
“I have not had to deal with an injury like this before so I will come out of it as a stronger person and a better goalkeeper and look forward to the start of next season,” he said.
