Rangers no.1 Jack Butland is “in contention” to be called up by England for the friendlies against Brazil and Belgium next month, according to Sky Sports News.
There have been growing calls for the 30-year-old to be recalled by Three Lions boss Gareth Southgate following his excellent form for the Light Blues this season.
With it now looking increasingly likely that Butland will be included in England’s next squad, Gers fans on X have expressed their delight that the keeper is getting the recognition he deserves:
Totally deserved. Big man’s a proper Rangers keeper and exactly what we needed post-McGregor renaissance.
— JRK (@topclasskennedy) February 27, 2024
This is phenomenal! When would the last time a player of ours would of been called up to a top 10 international national squad? Outwith Scotland during Walter and Big Ecks time.
— RangersLoyal2020 (@cameron19900407) February 27, 2024
Good on ye Jack , just don’t get injured 🙈🙈
— james morgan (@jamesmo63632336) February 27, 2024
Puts us in a strong position come the summer too. If anyone was looking to buy an England international goalkeeper then it won’t come cheap.
— John (@johnwithanoh) February 27, 2024
We’re so lucky to have him, it’s hard to believe he wasn’t getting much game time elsewhere in recent seasons 🧤
— john (@JStoo294) February 27, 2024
If he gets in that euros squad his value doubles
— Johnson (@JohnsonJmb) February 27, 2024
Butland has been in exile for quite some time
It has been five and half years since the keeper won his last cap in a friendly against Switzerland but it must be said that the shot-stopper has not really warranted a recall up until now.
Butland struggled for form after Stoke City were relegated to the English Championship in 2018. When he made the switch to Crystal Palace a couple of years later, he was signed as a backup.
Things didn’t get much better for him even after joining Manchester United on loan last season, as he didn’t make an appearance during his six month stay at Old Trafford.
He has rediscovered his best form at Rangers
Considering Butland’s lack of games in recent years, supporters were surprised how quickly how managed to establish himself as a key player at Ibrox.
The England international has been a revelation for Philippe Clement’s side, helping them to the top of the Scottish Premiership table.