It was perplexing for Jermain Defoe and Joleon Lescott that Raheem Sterling was consistently left out of England’s squad.

The forward’s banishment from England’s national team deepened when, despite his stellar club play, Gareth Southgate included him in neither of his groups for the Euro 2024 qualifying matches against North Macedonia and Malta.

Despite having 82 appearances for England, Sterling has not played since coming off the bench in last year’s World Cup quarterfinal loss to France. He has scored 20 goals in that tournament.

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The former England teammates were perplexed as to why Sterling had lost favor with Southgate when they spoke ahead of Friday’s match against Malta at Wembley.

Defoe told Channel 4 that it was surprising that he wasn’t involved in past squads.

In recent years, he has been among England’s best players. He not only makes the team, but he also starts games like this one based on his current form. His inclusion on this team is well-deserved.

Lescott, who earned 26 caps for his nation, concurred with Defoe and chimed in, saying, “He’s arguably as in form as anyone else.”

Sterling will be perplexed by the explanation. You often fail to comprehend when you are not chosen.

“(However) Southgate is aware that Sterling will respond positively if he is called upon to play in a big tournament.”

The 28-year-old first played for his country in a friendly match against Sweden in 2012, over a decade ago.

His first season at Stamford Bridge after joining from Man City last summer was challenging, but he has shown indications of being at his best this year.

Sterling has made 12 appearances for the Premier League, scoring four goals and assisting on two more.

Following the international break, the attacker will make his return to the field on November 25 when Chelsea play away to Newcastle.