England’s provisional squad for Euro 2024 is set to be announced, with Gareth Southgate facing a selection nightmare. The team has struggled to find a fit left-back for the tournament, with major fitness and availability issues affecting key players. The squad includes Manchester United, Manchester City, and Real Madrid players, with some arriving later due to club commitments. Southgate is aiming to have at least 22 players available for the first training session, but some key defenders like Luke Shaw, Ben Chilwell, and Kieran Trippier have had limited playing time.
The uncertainty over the defensive line extends to other positions, with concerns about the availability and form of players like Harry Maguire, Marc Guehi, and John Stones. Southgate is considering different options, including using Joe Gomez as a left-back and potentially sacrificing Trent Alexander-Arnold from the defense. In attack, the team has more depth and options, with key players like Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham, and Marcus Rashford expected to feature prominently.
The midfield lineup is likely to include Declan Rice and Trent Alexander-Arnold, with Bellingham and Foden competing for the No. 10 role. Foden is keen on playing centrally rather than on the wing, while Bellingham’s impressive performances have earned him a strong chance of starting. Southgate is expected to have a strong attack, with Cole Palmer, Jack Grealish, and possibly Marcus Rashford adding further firepower. The likely starting XI for England in the Euros includes Pickford, Walker, Stones, Maguire, Trippier, Rice, Alexander-Arnold, Saka, Bellingham, Foden, and Kane.
The team’s preparations for the tournament have been challenging, with key players facing fitness issues and limited game time. Southgate has been monitoring their progress closely and making decisions based on their availability and form. The squad includes a mix of experienced players and rising stars, with a strong attack compensating for potential weaknesses in defense. Southgate will need to make some tough choices in finalizing his squad, with the hope of assembling a competitive team for the Euros. Overall, England faces a tough road to success in the tournament, but the team’s talent and determination could make them strong contenders.
