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This summer, as they strive to win Euro 2024, England will face Slovenia, Denmark, and Serbia in Group C.
Gareth Southgate’s side topped their qualifying group without defeat and will be one of the favourites to lift the trophy in Germany on 14 July, given their recent record in major tournaments and the outstanding form of attacking duo Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham this season.
There are currently only two remaining friendly matches for players to make a good impression on the manager before he chooses his final roster of 23 players.
In the upcoming months, England will have exciting friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium. However, with intense competition for spots on the team, performance in the Premier League and other European leagues will be crucial.
Taking a more in-depth view, we will examine the individuals who will be participating in the Euros and those who may not make the cut.
On the plane
Harry Kane
The leader of England continues to be their main source of strength on the field, showing both strong leadership skills and scoring ability as he continues to increase his already impressive record. Kane has quickly adapted to playing for Bayern Munich and has praised the benefits of the Bundesliga’s winter break and having one less domestic cup competition to play in. Southgate is counting on Kane to be in top condition for the Euros.
Jude Bellingham
The 20-year-old has rapidly become one of England’s key players. He consistently delivers exceptional performances for both his country and his new team, Real Madrid, by scoring goals and providing assists through attacking runs from the midfield. Bellingham is favored by Southgate as a No 10 alongside Kane, potentially leading to a successful partnership between England’s current captain and his future successor.
Declan Rice
Rice has made a good start to life at Arsenal, and his importance at international level has grown immeasurably over the past few years to the point where he is crucial to how England play.
John Stones
The Manchester City defender has consistently been a dependable player for Southgate, playing a crucial role in the team’s successful runs at the 2018 World Cup and the most recent Euros. With limited options for centre-backs, his spot in the squad is even more secure.
Kyle Walker
Walker’s experience, quick recovery and proficiency in playing on the right side of a three-man defense make him a crucial player in Southgate’s strategies for Manchester City. Since becoming manager in 2016, only Kane and Harry Maguire have earned more than Walker’s 61 caps.
Jordan Pickford
The starting goalkeeper for Everton has held the position of England’s top choice for a significant amount of time, and it appears that his spot is secure. This is especially evident since Aaron Ramsdale, who was seen as his main competition, has now been replaced by David Raya at Arsenal.
Bukayo Saka
Saka, a well-known and reliable member of the current team, is quickly rising to become a senior player at only 22 years old. He has scored 11 goals in 32 games, showcasing his versatility on both the left and right sides of the field. He is also capable of playing as an attacking wing-back, making him a valuable asset for a manager who frequently changes tactics.
Phil Foden
Foden is frequently discussed in regards to his potential, but he will be 24 years old during the Euros and has become an integral player for Pep Guardiola’s City team. His exceptional ball control sets him apart from other players on the England squad, and Southgate’s only dilemma is how to utilize Foden’s attacking abilities in a team that also includes Bellingham and Saka.
Harry Maguire
The defender for Manchester United is a highly trusted player by Southgate and recently received a show of support by starting against Italy in the qualifying round for Euro 2024. Despite doubts from fans and media due to his limited playing time at his club, he has regained his position at Manchester United and is now a strong candidate for the Three Lions team once again.
Kieran Trippier
Trippier, a top pick of Southgate, was expected to secure a spot in the squad due to his experience, adaptability, and skill in set-piece situations. However, his inconsistent performance for Newcastle this season may now raise some uncertainty, especially considering the strong competition in his position.
Nearly there
Luke Shaw
If he is in good physical condition, Shaw is the top choice for the left-back position on the English national team. He adds an offensive element when overlapping with other players and has strong connections with Maguire and Rashford from their time together at Manchester United. However, he has been sidelined for most of the current season due to a leg injury and will have to regain his position on his club team in order to secure a spot on the national team. He faces competition from players like Ben Chilwell and Trippier.
Kalvin Phillips
Similar to Maguire’s status at United, Phillips is highly regarded by the manager. However, there is a concern about his limited playing time at Manchester City. Phillips has acknowledged that he may have to consider his options for the future, but he continues to be a top choice among a limited selection of central midfielders and has valuable experience in major tournaments.
Jack Grealish
The winger from City had to work hard to gain the trust of Southgate, but now, at the age of 28 and with a treble under his belt, he is a consistent member of the squad. The only uncertainty is whether the manager views him as a key player in the starting lineup or as a substitute who can make a big impact on the game.
Ollie Watkins
Reworded: Watkins is currently the top contender to serve as Kane’s backup for the Euros, as he has been consistently scoring and assisting since Unai Emery became the manager of Aston Villa. In terms of goal contributions in the Premier League this season, only Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland have surpassed him.
Marcus Rashford
The current leading scorer for Manchester United ranks third during the Southgate era with a total of 16 goals, placing behind only Kane and Raheem Sterling. His speed and direct approach towards scoring from the left side aligns with Kane’s tendency to move back and assist in playmaking. Additionally, he can serve as a potential No 9 option when needed. However, doubts have arisen due to his underwhelming performance with his club, as other players such as Cole Palmer, Jarrod Bowen, and Anthony Gordon vie for a spot in the team – will Southgate continue to have confidence in him?
James Maddison
During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the midfielder faced challenges due to an injury, resulting in his absence from the game. However, his impressive performance for Tottenham at the start of the season has earned him a spot in recent squads. Maddison is now set to join Bellingham as a backup in the No. 10 position.
Trent Alexander-Arnold
In the past, he had difficulty playing as a right-back for the England team, but when he moved to midfield, he became more actively involved. As vice-captain of Liverpool, he is skilled at creating scoring opportunities and delivering set-pieces, making him a potential game-changer for Southgate’s team.
Ben Chilwell
The left-back for Chelsea did not participate in any of the matches during the previous Euros and instead observed from the sidelines as Shaw (and sometimes Trippier) took his place. He has been recovering from a hamstring injury this season, but if he is healthy and performing well, Chilwell should be included in the team for the upcoming tournament.
Jordan Henderson
The England supporters at Wembley showed disapproval towards the midfielder during recent international matches due to his transfer to the Saudi Pro League. However, this only solidified Southgate’s support for the player. The manager highly regards Henderson’s dedication, expertise, and ability to lead in a team of young players. Henderson’s chances of being included in the team may be enhanced by his comeback to European football with Ajax in January.
Aaron Ramsdale
The goalkeeper at Arsenal is struggling to secure a starting position against David Raya, and may have to go on loan in January in order to get more playing time. However, even if he becomes a backup player for Mikel Arteta, he is expected to be chosen as Pickford’s replacement for the Euros.
In contention
Cole Palmer
Reworded: Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, a rising star on the field for Mauricio Pochettino’s team, is the player sprinting along the outer edge. His skillful touches, innovative plays, and scoring abilities have been evident this season, making him a key player for the team. With only two caps so far, Palmer is already proving to be a tough choice for coach Southgate and is likely to have more opportunities to shine in the upcoming March friendlies.
Raheem Sterling
Southgate has expressed confidence in Sterling potentially being included in his team, but the Chelsea winger has not been included in recent training sessions and will have to compete with Rashford and Grealish, among others, for a spot on the left side of England’s attack in the manager’s preferred lineup. His absence from the latest squad is worrisome for him, but his performance this season has shown potential.
Kobbie Mainoo
The 18-year-old has the choice to represent two international teams, and England may want to accelerate his promotion to the senior team in order to avoid him choosing to play for Ghana instead. Mainoo has had a remarkable debut year at Manchester United after completing his training at the academy, and has previously played for England’s youth teams. If he maintains his current level of performance this season, it may be challenging to exclude him from the team.
Sam Johnstone
The goalkeeper for Crystal Palace has surpassed Nick Pope in the competition to be England’s third-choice goalkeeper and performed impressively in a recent friendly against Australia.
Lewis Dunk
The captain of Brighton had to patiently wait for five years before receiving his second opportunity to represent his country on an international level. However, he has made the most of these recent chances and has performed exceptionally well. His strength in the air and skillful ball control, developed during his time under Roberto De Zerbi at Brighton, are highly valuable qualities for a centre-back, a position that often lacks stability in the English team.
Reece James
The fullback is a top performer on the global stage, but his inconsistent availability is worrisome, especially with the limited 23-player roster this time. Furthermore, James faces stiff competition from Walker, Trippier, and Alexander-Arnold for a spot on the team.
Marc Guehi
The England coaching staff holds the Palace defender in high regard and believes that at the age of 23, he could become a pivotal member of the defense in the future. The position of centre-back for Euro 2024 is open to competition and Guehi has a strong chance, especially after earning recent starts during qualifying matches.
Conor Gallagher
Gallagher has shown great skill and enthusiasm in his group of appearances for England and is highly regarded by the manager. However, there are other experienced central midfielders who may be difficult to surpass in the national team. If he continues to receive regular playing time for Chelsea this season, it will strengthen his chances.
Jarrod Bowen
Bowen is performing well this season for West Ham and has demonstrated strong attacking abilities in his five appearances for England so far. However, he will face tough competition for the winger positions from players such as Saka, Grealish, and Foden.
Dominic Solanke
The Bournemouth forward has been exceptional in what has been his most successful season thus far. The 26-year-old has developed into a skilled striker and is being considered for the Euro 2024 team.
Work to do
Anthony Gordon
The winger from Newcastle is having a great season at St James’ Park, with 11 goals or assists in the Premier League. Despite this, he has not yet been called up to play for his national team at the highest level, but he may have an opportunity in the two friendly games in March.
Callum Wilson
If the Newcastle forward remains in good physical condition, he tends to score more goals. However, he must consistently play in multiple matches to prove himself, and the recent performances of Watkins and Solanke have decreased his opportunities.
Fikayo Tomori
Last year, Southgate received criticism for his comments on the Milan defender’s frequent errors. However, Tomori has been performing well in Serie A and has now been called back to the England squad for the autumn.
Eberechi Eze
The midfielder from Palace has a few international appearances, but must have an exceptional season in order to make it onto the Euros team.
James Ward-Prowse
The midfielder for West Ham is currently performing well for his team, but is not being chosen for his national team. He has not been selected for the last two major tournaments and has also been left out of recent squads. Some have suggested that he should take Henderson’s spot in midfield, but Southgate has not yet changed his decision.
Nick Pope
The third-choice goalkeeper for England has been displaced and will need to have a successful season with Newcastle in order to regain his position.
Ivan Toney
The Brentford forward, who was previously suspended for betting, will be back in January with five months to impress Southgate. He will have to start off strong, but his physicality provides a unique threat compared to fellow strikers Watkins and Wilson.
Outside bets
Curtis Jones
The 22-year-old midfielder for Liverpool had secured a consistent position in Jurgen Klopp’s squad earlier in the current season until he suffered an injury. If he can consistently impress at Anfield, it could be a factor for Southgate to take into account.
Ben White
The 2022 World Cup saw the departure of the Arsenal defender, citing personal reasons. Since then, he has not rejoined the England team. It is uncertain if White will participate in the Euros, but he remains a top performer for one of the Premier League’s elite teams.
Levi Colwill
The player from Chelsea has solidified his position in Mauricio Pochettino’s squad and is capable of playing as both a center-back and left-back. At 20 years old, this tournament may be a bit premature for him as there are more experienced players ahead of him in the hierarchy.
Morgan Gibbs-White
Gibbs-White worked up through the England age groups but is still to be recognised at senior level. He played a big part in England’s success at the Under-21 Euros in the summer and is Nottingham Forest’s talisman.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Formerly viewed as the obvious backup to Harry Kane, Calvert-Lewin has faced difficulties with both his performance and physical condition, causing him to drop in the hierarchy behind other forwards.
Ezri Konsa
Konsa is a vital part of an impressive Aston Villa team under Unai Emery, but he did not win a first senior cap after his first international call-up in November.
Mason Mount
Similar to Sterling, Mount has been displaced from the England squad due to the rise of new talent and his lackluster performance for his new team, Manchester United. However, his season has been disrupted by injuries. He will need to score some goals and provide assists in order to be considered for a return to the national team.
Eddie Nketiah
The top scorer for England’s Under-21 team has only played once with the senior team. In order to secure a spot in the Euros squad, he will need an exceptional performance for Arsenal towards the end of the season.
Predicting England’s Euro 2024 squad
There are three goalkeepers: Pickford, Ramsdale, and Johnstone.
The defenders on the team include Walker, Trippier, Guehi, Stones, Dunk, Maguire, Shaw, and Chilwell.
Possible rewording: Some of the midfield players on the team include Rice, Phillips, Alexander-Arnold, Henderson, Maddison, and Bellingham.
Forwards: Saka, Foden, Palmer, Grealish, Kane, Watkins.
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The article can be found on independent.co.uk and pertains to health news.