As Euro 2024 approaches, the anticipation surrounding Gareth Southgate’s England squad is palpable. With a mixture of established stars, promising young talents, and players hitting peak form, Southgate faces the enviable yet challenging task of selecting a squad capable of ending England’s long wait for a major trophy. This article delves into who should make the cut for the final 23-man squad, taking into consideration current form, versatility, and tactical fit within Southgate’s preferred systems.
Goalkeepers
Jordan Pickford (Everton)
Jordan Pickford has been Southgate’s first choice for several years, and his performances in major tournaments have largely justified that faith. His shot-stopping ability, distribution, and experience make him a crucial asset. Despite some inconsistent club form, Pickford’s performances for England have been reliable, making him the likely starter.
Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal)
Aaron Ramsdale has continued to impress at Arsenal with his reflex saves and command of the penalty area. His ability to play out from the back suits Southgate’s style, making him a strong contender for the squad. Ramsdale’s form has seen him push Pickford for the starting spot, and his inclusion provides healthy competition.
Nick Pope (Newcastle United)
Nick Pope’s consistent performances for Newcastle United have earned him a deserved place in the squad. Known for his excellent shot-stopping and aerial ability, Pope offers a more traditional goalkeeping option. His inclusion ensures depth and reliability in the goalkeeping department.
Defenders
Kyle Walker (Manchester City)
Kyle Walker’s pace, experience, and versatility make him an invaluable member of the squad. Capable of playing both as a right-back and a central defender in a back three, Walker’s tactical flexibility is a significant asset. His ability to neutralize top-tier wingers and provide an attacking outlet cannot be overlooked.
Reece James (Chelsea)
Reece James is another versatile option, offering both defensive solidity and attacking prowess down the right flank. His crossing ability and physical presence make him a valuable asset, whether Southgate opts for a back four or a wing-back system. James’ adaptability to different roles is a key strength.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
Despite some debates about his defensive capabilities, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s creative talents are undeniable. His passing range and vision provide a different dimension to England’s attack. If used correctly, especially in a more advanced or hybrid role, Alexander-Arnold can be a game-changer.
Ben Chilwell (Chelsea)
Ben Chilwell’s return from injury has been a boost for both Chelsea and England. As a natural left-back, Chilwell offers balance to the squad. His defensive awareness, coupled with his ability to contribute to the attack, makes him a solid choice for Southgate.
Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
Luke Shaw has been a mainstay under Southgate, delivering consistent performances for England. His combination of defensive diligence and attacking support makes him a dependable option at left-back. Shaw’s experience and understanding of Southgate’s system are invaluable.
John Stones (Manchester City)
John Stones has become one of the most reliable defenders in Europe under Pep Guardiola. His composure on the ball and ability to read the game make him a cornerstone of Southgate’s defense. Stones’ partnership with Harry Maguire has been pivotal for England.
Harry Maguire (Manchester United)
Despite facing criticism at club level, Harry Maguire has rarely put a foot wrong for England. His aerial prowess, leadership, and understanding with Stones provide a solid foundation for the defense. Maguire’s inclusion is crucial for stability and experience.
Fikayo Tomori (AC Milan)
Fikayo Tomori’s impressive displays for AC Milan have caught the eye of many. His pace and ability to play out from the back make him a modern defender suited to Southgate’s style. Tomori’s inclusion would add depth and a different defensive option.
Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace)
Marc Guehi has been a standout performer for Crystal Palace, showcasing maturity beyond his years. His composure, strength, and ability to read the game make him an exciting prospect. Guehi’s inclusion would provide additional competition and depth in central defense.
Midfielders
Declan Rice (West Ham United)
Declan Rice has established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet for England. His defensive solidity, ability to break up play, and distribution are crucial to Southgate’s midfield setup. Rice’s leadership qualities also make him a key figure in the squad.
Kalvin Phillips (Manchester City)
Kalvin Phillips’ energy, tackling, and passing make him a perfect partner for Rice in the double pivot. Despite limited game time at Manchester City, Phillips has proven his worth for England, particularly in Euro 2020. His understanding with Rice is a major asset.
Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
Jude Bellingham is one of the brightest young talents in world football. His dynamic style of play, ability to drive forward, and versatility make him a standout option in midfield. Bellingham’s inclusion provides creativity and a goal threat from midfield.
Mason Mount (Chelsea)
Mason Mount’s work rate, vision, and versatility make him a valuable asset for Southgate. Capable of playing as a number 10 or in a deeper role, Mount’s ability to link play and press high up the pitch fits well with Southgate’s tactical approach.
Phil Foden (Manchester City)
Phil Foden’s technical ability, vision, and creativity make him one of England’s most exciting players. Whether deployed in midfield or as part of the front three, Foden’s inclusion adds flair and unpredictability to England’s attack.
James Ward-Prowse (Southampton)
James Ward-Prowse’s set-piece prowess and passing ability provide a unique skill set in the squad. His consistency at Southampton and versatility in midfield roles make him a valuable option, especially in tight games where set pieces can be decisive.
Jordan Henderson (Al-Ettifaq)
Jordan Henderson’s experience, leadership, and work ethic are invaluable assets for England. While his move to the Saudi Pro League raised eyebrows, Henderson’s influence on and off the pitch remains crucial. His inclusion ensures a balance of youth and experience in the squad.
Forwards
Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur)
Harry Kane is undoubtedly England’s talisman and captain. His goal-scoring ability, link-up play, and leadership make him indispensable. Kane’s all-around game and experience in major tournaments are vital for England’s hopes in Euro 2024.
Raheem Sterling (Chelsea)
Raheem Sterling’s pace, dribbling, and ability to score crucial goals have made him a key player for England over the years. Despite a mixed season at Chelsea, Sterling’s experience and proven track record in international tournaments justify his inclusion.
Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Bukayo Saka’s rise has been meteoric, and he has quickly become one of England’s most important players. His versatility, work rate, and creativity down the right flank provide a constant threat. Saka’s form for Arsenal and England makes him a must-have in the squad.
Jack Grealish (Manchester City)
Jack Grealish’s ability to carry the ball, draw fouls, and create opportunities makes him a unique weapon in Southgate’s arsenal. His performances for Manchester City have shown his growth as a player, and his flair adds a different dimension to England’s attack.
Marcus Rashford (Manchester United)
Marcus Rashford’s pace, finishing, and ability to play across the front three make him a versatile option for Southgate. Rashford’s resurgence at Manchester United has been impressive, and his inclusion adds depth and dynamism to the forward line.
Ivan Toney (Brentford)
Ivan Toney’s goal-scoring exploits for Brentford have not gone unnoticed. His physical presence, finishing ability, and penalty-taking skills provide a different option in attack. Toney’s inclusion offers Southgate a robust alternative to Kane.
Tammy Abraham (AS Roma)
Tammy Abraham has flourished at AS Roma under Jose Mourinho. His movement, aerial ability, and knack for scoring goals make him a strong candidate for the squad. Abraham’s inclusion would add depth and competition for the central striker role.
Jadon Sancho (Manchester United)
Jadon Sancho’s creativity, dribbling, and ability to play on either wing make him a valuable option. Despite some inconsistency at club level, Sancho’s talent and potential to change games cannot be ignored. His inclusion adds another layer of attacking quality.
Tactical Considerations
Gareth Southgate has primarily used two formations: a 4-3-3 and a 3-4-3. The 4-3-3 allows for a more attacking setup, with a focus on possession and pressing high up the pitch. The 3-4-3 provides defensive solidity and allows wing-backs to contribute to both defense and attack.
4-3-3 Formation
In a 4-3-3, Pickford would start in goal, with Walker, Stones, Maguire, and Shaw forming the back four. Rice would anchor the midfield, with Bellingham and Mount or Phillips offering support and creativity. The front three would likely consist of Kane, Sterling, and Saka, providing a blend of pace, creativity, and finishing.
3-4-3 Formation
In a 3-4-3, Pickford remains in goal, with Walker, Stones, and Maguire forming the back three. James and Chilwell would operate as wing-backs, offering width and support in both defense and attack. Rice and Bellingham would control the midfield, while Kane, Sterling, and Foden or Grealish form a dynamic and fluid front three.
Conclusion
Selecting the final 23-man squad for Euro 2024 is a daunting task for Gareth Southgate, given the depth and quality available. Balancing experience with youthful exuberance, ensuring tactical flexibility, and fostering a cohesive team spirit will be crucial. The outlined squad offers a blend of proven performers, emerging talents, and versatile options capable of adapting to different match situations. With the right mix, England has the potential to go all the way and lift the trophy in Germany.