Why veteran Man Utd goalkeeper Tom Heaton is joining up with the England squad for Euro 2024 - explained

The FA has confirmed that Heaton has been called up to the England squad by Gareth Southgate, although he will not be playing. The squad already has three goalkeepers: Everton's Jordan Pickford, Arsenal's Aaron Ramsdale and Crystal Palace's Dean Henderson.

Heaton, 38, will join up with the squad as a 'training goalkeeper', the FA has confirmed. Manchester United have allowed the veteran stopper to head off to support the group, as an experienced player who will only be making saves on the training pitch.

Southgate said: "I am really pleased Tom has agreed to join us in Germany. Experience tells us that a tournament can put a lot of demand on our goalkeeping group led by Martyn Margetson. Tom will play an invaluable role on the training pitch supporting Jordan, Aaron and Dean.

"Off the field as someone we all know well, he will add to the positive environment we are always looking to create. We are grateful to Manchester United for their support in making this happen."

Heaton wrote on X: "Incredibly honoured to be asked by Gareth to join the squad. To get the call to go to a major tournament, to help in anyway I can and pass on my experience is a proud moment We have a great squad, I’m excited and can't wait to join the group."

England kick off their tournament against Serbia on Sunday. Heaton has won three caps in total, playing against Australia and Spain in 2016 and France in 2017. He was a substitute goalkeeper during Euro 2016.