Johnstone in a race for recovery this season after suffering an elbow injury
Crystal Palace goalkeeper Sam Johnstone is in a race against time to play again this season after suffering an elbow injury on England duty, a blow that jeopardises his hopes of being named in the Euro 2024 squad.
England confirmed on Sunday night that Johnstone was one of a trio of pull-outs, including Harry Maguire and Kyle Walker, ahead of Tuesday’s clash against Belgium at Wembley.
The Football Association did not confirm the nature or extent of the injuries at the time; only that all three players would be returning to their respective clubs.
On Sunday night there was hope at Palace that Johnstone’s elbow injury wasn’t serious following initial discussions.
But after further talks, there are emerging concerns the problem is worse than first feared, raising concerns Johnstone could struggle to play again this season.
Mail Sport understands Johnstone was not carrying the injury when he reported for duty last Tuesday afternoon.
The news arrives as a huge blow to Crystal Palace boss Olivier Glasner, who had made Johnstone his No 1 since arriving as Roy Hodgson’s replacement. Dean Henderson is set to deputise in Johnstone’s absence.
But it arrives as a bigger blow to Johnstone, particularly if it means he misses the European Championship.
England boss Gareth Southgate already has a major problem in regards to his understudies for Jordan Pickford, who will start Euro 2024 as England’s No 1.
Johnstone was emerging as a serious contender to go to Germany as Pickford’s back-up, particularly given Aaron Ramsdale is not playing at Arsenal and Nick Pope's long-term injury at Newcastle.
Southgate promoted Burnley keeper James Trafford into his squad on Sunday to replace Johnstone, while Jack Butland could be an option if Johnstone fails
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