Leeds United star leave England squad ahead of England vs Japan clash after England fc board turn down Leeds United request

Dominic Calvert-Lewin sends new message as Leeds United striker leaves England camp early

(Back row L-R) England’s striker Dominic Solanke, England’s defender Harry Maguire, England’s defender Djed Spence, England’s goalkeeper James Trafford and England’s midfielder James Garner, (front row L-R) England’s defender Fikayo Tomori, England’s midfielder Jordan Henderson, England’s midfielder Phil Foden, England’s striker Marcus Rashford, England’s defender Tino Livramento and England’s midfielder Noni Madueke pose for a team photo ahead of the friendly International football match between England and Uruguay at Wembley Stadium, west London, on March 27, 2026. (Photo by Henry Nicholls / AFP via Getty Images) / NOT FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING USE / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has left the England camp early, with the Leeds United striker reacting following his return to St George’s Park.

The 29-year-old was called up by Thomas Tuchel as a reward for his performances throughout the Premier League season.

However, with the German opting to call up 35 players for the two international friendlies this break, it was always likely that many of those would have a short stint in the camp.

Unfortunately, for Calvert-Lewin, he will not be in the squad to face Japan on Tuesday, missing out on a clash against fellow Leeds teammate Ao Tanaka.

However, while the Englishman may be disappointed another cap will not land his way, Farke will be delighted his striker gets a rest before a crucial period of games for Leeds.

What has Dominic Calvert-Lewin said after returning to Leeds early

Calvert-Lewin featured for just 36 minutes against Uruguay, and after waiting so long for his next chance for the Three Lions, he would have been hoping for more.

After being sent home early by Tuchel, the Englishman will now hope he does not have to wait as long for his next cap as he had previously done before.

Despite likely being disappointed he will not get another chance this break, the 29-year-old has remained upbeat, issuing a message to supporters.

Taking to Instagram, Calvert-Lewin said: “An honour to be back wearing the England shirt, loved every minute,” with a heart emoji attached as well.

This international break marked just the 12th cap for the Leeds striker and his first international appearance since featuring in the quarter-final of EURO 2020.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MARCH 27: Jordan Henderson of England acknowledges the fans following the international friendly match between England and Uruguay at Wembley Stadium on March 27, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images)

While Calvert-Lewin leaving early is a bad omen for his World Cup chances, there is plenty of time for the 29-year-old to continue to prove why he should be on the plane.

However, he must now prove that for Leeds and make it a difficult decision for Tuchel to leave him out.

The Whites have a chance at FA Cup glory with a trip to face West Ham at London Stadium on 5 April, the only obstacle ahead of reaching a Wembley semi-final.

While Leeds will have a focus on staying in the Premier League, they will also not want this chance in the cup to go missing.

If Calvert-Lewin’s goals can deliver FA Cup success and keep the Peacocks in the top flight, it would be hard for Tuchel not to notice.

The Englishman’s World Cup dream may still be on.

Leeds United have seen most of their players suffer heartbreak with their national sides during their international break.

Daniel Farke will surely have another headache at Elland Road, with the likes of Karl Darlow, Ethan Ampadu, Daniel James, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Joel Piroe returning after apparent setbacks.

Wales and Suriname were knocked out of the World Cup play-offs, while the former Everton striker has been let go by England after his display against Uruguay.

There are some key players who will undoubtedly be low on confidence ahead of the West Yorkshire outfit’s return to action against West Ham United in the FA Cup quarter-final on 5 April.

England manager Thomas Tuchel with Dominic Calvert-Lewin on the touchline during the international friendly match at Wembley Stadium, London. Picture date: Friday March 27, 2026. (Photo by Bradley Collyer/PA Images via Getty Images)

Farke has a Premier League relegation scrap to deal with and it doesn’t help that the Peacocks’ international contingent undoubtedly won’t be in good spirits after what’s happened.

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