Sam Johnstone in race against time to play again this season after suffering an elbow injury on England duty… jeopardising the Crystal Palace goalkeeper’s Euro 2024 hopes

Crystal Palace goalkeeper Sam Johnstone is in a race against time to return to play this season after suffering an elbow injury while on England duty, a blow that puts his hopes of being named in the squad in jeopardy. Euro 2024 team.

England confirmed on Sunday night that Johnstone was one of three players to withdraw, 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 the three players would return to their respective clubs.

There were hopes at Palace on Sunday night that Johnstone’s elbow injury was not serious after initial discussions.

But after further conversations, concerns are emerging that the problem is worse than initially feared, leading to concerns that Johnstone could struggle to play again this season.

Your browser does not support iframes.

Mail Sport understands Johnstone did not have the injury when he reported for work on Tuesday afternoon.

The news comes as a blow to Crystal Palace boss Olivier Glasner, who had made Johnstone his number one since arriving as Roy Hodgson’s replacement. Dean Henderson will fill in in Johnstone’s absence.

But it is a bigger blow for Johnstone, especially if it means he will miss the Euros.

England manager Gareth Southgate already has a big problem regarding his understudies Jordan Pickford, who will start Euro 2024 as England’s number one.

Johnstone was emerging as a serious contender to go to Germany as Pickford’s understudy, particularly considering Aaron Ramsdale is not playing for Arsenal and Nick Pope’s long-term injury at Newcastle.

Southgate promoted Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford to his squad on Sunday to replace Johnstone, while Jack Butland could be an option if Johnstone fails to prove fit.