England boss Gareth Southgate has revealed that Danny Drinkwater turned down the opportunity to feature in the friendly internationals with Germany and Brazil.
Since making the switch to Stamford Bridge in August, Drinkwater has made just one start and three substitute appearances for Chelsea in all competitions, all of which have come since October 25.
However, despite having seemingly recovered from a calf injury, Southgate has said that Drinkwater had asked not to feature in the Wembley double-header, starting with Germany on Friday night.
The 44-year-old told BBC Radio 5 live: "I spoke to Danny earlier in the week but he feels he is not fit enough to play."
Drinkwater has earned three caps for England, the last of which came in May 2016.