Says Jan Etherington

NO

expectation that he should be “there for her” at childbirth, the larger point is, Fabian, that you signed up to be in England’s World Cup squad and we expect a full commitment.

After all we play Colombia in the last 16 match tonight and, if the result matches our respective standings in the Fifa rankings, we’ll go on to face Sweden or Switzerland in the quarter final. As bookings and injuries start to mount up there’s never been a better time to have a star such as you available for selection.

YOU said you’d discussed the “domestic situation” with boss Gareth Southgate and “Gareth’s been absolutely fantastic”. Well of course he has. He wears a waistcoat. He’s a gentleman and too nice to bellow: “Don’t be ridiculous!” But I bet he never thought you would actually leave.

Fabian says: “Nothing is more important than family. I will always put them first.” Normally, an admirable sentiment. Except when you get the England call.

So Fabian’s leaving because “My wife’s having a baby”. What next? Jesse Lingard announces “It’s my mum’s birthday and I can’t miss the party…”

Fabian, in your case, babies come along quite often – but a World Cup call-up? Natalie and the baby will be fine, now get back to your day job.

‘You signed up to be in the England squad and we expect a full commitment’