Tyler Morton has shared the upsetting moment he realised he'd be missing England's crucial semifinal against the Netherlands at the U21 Euros.
The Young Lions secured a thrilling 3-1 victory over Spain in Trnava on Saturday, propelling them into a head-to-head with Michael Reiziger's outfit on Wednesday. Lee Carsley's team enjoyed an element of fortune, as an initial penalty decision against them was reversed following VAR analysis, setting the stage for skipper James McAtee to break the deadlock with an early goal.
Liverpool star Harvey Elliott swiftly extended the lead just five minutes later, and Elliot Anderson stepped off the bench to slot home a spot-kick during injury time, guaranteeing England's place in the semifinals.
Unfortunately for Morton, a first-half yellow card – his second of the competition – means he'll be sidelined for the upcoming fixture.
Morton disclosed his lack of awareness regarding the suspension until post-match discussions.
"I didn't know until after the game. I was just really in the zone. I don't think it was a yellow card, myself, but it's gone," he said. "I've got to just prepare myself now for what could be, but I'll be right behind the lads the whole game."
England is through to the semifinals of the U21 Euros, but Morton won't play
England is through to the semifinals of the U21 Euros, but Morton won't play (Image: Getty Images)
Reflecting on England's performance in the quarterfinal, Morton waxed lyrical: "This is a very special team.
"It's a team that's got a bit of everything, especially fighters. You see at the end, it's part of the game and I think everyone's got passion for the game.
"That's some things that you don't develop, that's something you've just got and I think this team's got it.
"We showed that, dominating a Spanish team for most of the game was not what all English teams do.
"I think that we've shown a different side. I think we were very comfortable in and out of possession, and I think sometimes the out-of-possession bit has got to be done. I think they're a top team, they're a threat, but I think we minimised that threat."
Meanwhile, Liverpool teammate Elliott was left gobsmacked after the match, stating: "Incredible. Lost for words, I think.
"I said at the start of the game it was going to be very tough, they're going to play an incredible game against us, but I thought the way the lads handled it, handled that pressure, conceding a goal and being determined to keep on going, keep on fighting, we deserve it so much.
"Now it's kind of time to celebrate, but we need to think about the semis now. Celebrate, recover, rest, go again."