THERE is no doubt that England are one of Europe’s top national teams, but can they go one better than 2020 and win EURO 2024? Gareth Southgate has changed the squad significantly since the 2022 World Cup with half of the players from Qatar being pushed out of contention. He gradually replaced some of the mainstays of the past like Jordan Henderson, Raheem Sterling and Marcus Rashford.
He has a batch of young players whose time has come; Declan Rice and Phil Foden, for example, are approaching the peak of their careers and EURO 2024 and the next World Cup will see them at the zenith of their playing days. Others, such as Bukayo Saka and Jude Bellingham have a little more mileage remaining but after outstanding campaigns with their clubs, they are in the best possible shape to make an impact in Germany. On top of that, Southgate has the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Eberechi Eze who, at 25, have to make their name in this tournament. They may never get a better chance.
The new guard also include Marc Guéhi, Kobbie Mainoo, Adam Wharton and Cole Palmer, all very young and potential-rich but lacking experience of a major international competition. It may be they will have to wait for their opportunity, but if they develop as anticipated, Southgate’s successor will have a new generation of talented England players at his disposal.
Goalkeepers are rarely a problem for England, so Jordan Pickford has capable deputies in Aaron Ramsdale – who will surely leave Arsenal’s bench for pastures new – and Dean Henderson. But generally, the defence looks a little suspect. Kyle Walker remains an excellent player, but he is 34 and almost at the end of his career. Kieran Tripper is a year younger and if he gets the nod, it gives England two full backs who may struggle for pace in the summer heat of Germany. Central defenders are thin on the ground which paints a worrying picture if England come up against some fleet-footed young forwards who like to run at defenders.
The rest of Southgate’s team looks full of vigour, notably in the middle of the park. Bellingham, after his scoring exploits in La Liga could complete a stellar season if England go all the way, although one has to remember he is just 20 years of age. A good EURO 2024 will further his claims for a Ballon d’Or crown. A lot will also be expected of Foden, Rice and Saka. Interestingly, Southgate disposed of Jack Grealish and James Maddison, casting huge doubts about their future England careers. They are 28 and 27 respectively and being omitted from the squad at this time really does suggest they may not appear again while Southgate is manager.
Harry Kane had a great first season with Bayern Munich but received an injury towards the end. Kane, when he is playing, is a pivotal figure for England, but what happens if he is unfit? Ollie Watkins is the natural replacement, but it is very hard to deal with Kane’s absence. The jury is still out on both Ivan Toney and Jarrod Bowen for some people.
This tournament could be the last call for around half of the squad, including Kane. There are not many better first elevens than England, so Southgate has to get it right with his selection and approach from the start. Too often England have started slowly, but in order to build momentum quickly, they need to be on their game as soon as EURO 2024 kicks off and any shortcomings have to be compensated by strengths in other departments. This is another big opportunity for England’s players, there should be no more “jam tomorrow” talk, because the time is now and the clock is ticking.
GAME OF THE PEOPLE 