Manchester United goalkeeper Tom Heaton, 38, gets SHOCK call-up to England's Euro 2024 squad - where Gareth Southgate says his unique role will be 'invaluable' in Germany

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Manchester United reserve goalkeeper Tom Heaton has been announced a surprise addition to England's Euro 2024 camp. 

The Three Lions will touch down in Germany on Monday ahead of their opening game against Serbia on June 16. Gareth Southgate confirmed his 26-man squad last week, which included three keepers. 

However, Heaton, who was only included in four of the Red Devils' Premier League match day squads last term, has joined the party as a training keeper. 

The 38-year-old said he was 'incredibly honoured' to be asked by the England boss to be a part set up and hailed the 'great' squad that will contest the tournament. 

'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.'

Tom Heaton was included in only four of Manchester United's Premier League match day squads last season

Gareth Southgate (right) has drafted in the experienced stopper to assist with training during the tournament

The 38-year-old said that he was 'incredibly honoured' to be asked to join the England squad

The former Burnley star has been capped three times for England, with his last appearance coming in a 3-2 friendly win over France in 2017. 

Heaton was included in England's Euro 2016 squad but failed to get any minutes ahead of the Three Lions' shock round of 16 defeat by Iceland. 

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Southgate insisted that Heaton will play 'an invaluable role' supporting the goalkeeping unit and thanked his club for their support in allowing him to join the group. 

'I am really pleased Tom has agreed to join us in Germany.' The England boss said in a statement on the FA's website. '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.'

The veteran keeper rejoined United in 2021, having begun his career with the club as a youngster, but he is yet to make a league appearance for the side in the last three years. 

Heaton has made three appearances for England and was part of the Euro 2016 squad under Roy Hodgson

According to reports last month, he is open to stay with the club and moving into a coaching role once his contract expires at the end of June. 

On Monday, England's Euro 2024 stars have returned to their training base at St George's Park ahead of jetting out to Germany.

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The players were given the weekend off after their disappointing 1-0 defeat by Iceland at Wembley on Friday night in their final friendly before the Euros.

But despite that setback, the players appeared in good spirits as they checked back in on Monday morning, with captain Harry Kane smiling for the cameras.

Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham, who has joined up with the squad after winning the Champions League earlier this month.

The excitement is building ahead of England's Euros opener against Serbia on Sunday, and Prince William along with his son Prince Louis popped in to offer the players some last-minute advice.

The Prince of Wales was seen chatting to Southgate, and later told the squad his son had recommended 'double portions' to get the job done in Germany.

England's players have arrived back at St George's, with captain Harry Kane leading the way

England check into their five-star resort (pictured) in Germany later today

The squad are due to fly out this evening to their training base at the Weimarer Land Spa and Golf resort in Germany.

The five-star luxury resort has three golf courses, a Padel court and two swimming pools to ensure the players will get plenty of downtime in between matches as they look to finally bring 58 years of hurt to an end.