Gareth Southgate faces the task of finalizing his 26-man England squad for the European Championship by 11pm Friday, as assessed by Sky Sports News Senior Reporter Rob Dorsett. He evaluates the players who are certain to make the trip to Germany, those who are unlikely to secure a spot, and those on the edge of selection.
Looking back at Southgate’s previous 26-man squads for Euro 2020 and World Cup 2022, he typically included three goalkeepers, nine or ten defenders, five or six midfielders, and eight forwards. A similar approach is expected for the Euro 2024 squad, although considering the defensive injury concerns, an additional defender for cover is possible, resulting in a probable split of 10 defenders and five midfielders.
With more pressure on attacking players and an abundance of options, Southgate faces tough decisions. Player selections will heavily rely on medical reports and training/fitness data available to Southgate and his staff. Despite his desire to include Luke Shaw in the squad, the Manchester United left-back’s lack of recent game time poses a significant risk. However, Southgate may opt to include Shaw, banking on his potential contribution during crucial tournament stages.
Harry Maguire is expected to be among the final 26 despite persistent calf injury concerns, while John Stones should recover in time with increased training intensity and match minutes.
Gareth Southgate faces the task of finalizing his 26-man England squad for the European Championship by 11pm Friday, as assessed by Sky Sports News Senior Reporter Rob Dorsett. He evaluates the players who are certain to make the trip to Germany, those who are unlikely to secure a spot, and those on the edge of selection.
Looking back at Southgate’s previous 26-man squads for Euro 2020 and World Cup 2022, he typically included three goalkeepers, nine or ten defenders, five or six midfielders, and eight forwards. A similar approach is expected for the Euro 2024 squad, although considering the defensive injury concerns, an additional defender for cover is possible, resulting in a probable split of 10 defenders and five midfielders.
With more pressure on attacking players and an abundance of options, Southgate faces tough decisions. Player selections will heavily rely on medical reports and training/fitness data available to Southgate and his staff. Despite his desire to include Luke Shaw in the squad, the Manchester United left-back’s lack of recent game time poses a significant risk. However, Southgate may opt to include Shaw, banking on his potential contribution during crucial tournament stages.
Harry Maguire is expected to be among the final 26 despite persistent calf injury concerns, while John Stones should recover in time with increased training intensity and match minutes.
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