Tom Heaton 'incredibly honoured' after surprise England call-up for Euro 2024

Heaton was only included in four matchday squads for Manchester United last season, with Andre Onana and Altay Bayindir often preferred.

The veteran has, however, been drafted into England's camp for Euro 2024 - with the 38-year-old poised to be a training goalkeeper.

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. pic.twitter.com/BvJ5yIHqtD

— Tom Heaton (@TomHeatonGK) June 10, 2024

England confirmed Heaton would be flying out to Germany in a statement that read: "Tom Heaton will join England’s UEFA EURO 2024 squad as a training goalkeeper.

"The 38-year-old will head out to Germany with the Three Lions to support the trio of Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale and Dean Henderson for the duration of the tournament.

"Heaton won three senior caps for England between 2016 and 2017, having represented his nation from MU16 through to MU21 level.

"The Manchester United goalkeeper was also a member of the squads at UEFA EURO 2016 and the 2019 UEFA Nations League Finals."

And Heaton, writing on X, has said he's 'honoured' to be drafted in.

​"Incredibly honoured to be asked by Gareth to join the squad," he wrote on X.

"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."

Southgate has also explained his decision.

He 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's United contract is set to expire on July 1.

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But the former Burnley star is currently in talks with the club over a new contract.

Another player United want to tie down is defender Jonny Evans.

Many were shocked when the centre-back returned to Old Trafford last summer following Leicester City's relegation to the Championship.

But Evans could now stay at United for another year, with the Red Devils eager to keep the stalwart in their ranks.

England will kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against Serbia on Sunday night.

Denmark and Slovenia are the two other teams in England's group as they look to win the European Championships for the first time.