Gareth Southgate’s Tough Decisions
Gareth Southgate, the manager of the England national team, revealed that excluding Marcus Rashford and Jordan Henderson from the provisional Euro 2024 squad was a challenging task. These players, who have been key figures in previous tournaments, were notably absent from the 33-player training group announced ahead of the upcoming European Championship.
Rashford and Henderson Omissions
Despite their experience and contributions in past competitions, Rashford and Henderson were left out due to various reasons. Rashford’s form at Manchester United has been inconsistent, while Henderson’s return to peak performance levels was deemed insufficient by Southgate.
Southgate’s Difficult Choices
Southgate acknowledged the difficulty of omitting long-serving players like Rashford and Henderson but emphasized the need to evolve the squad based on current performances. He highlighted the importance of making tough decisions for the team’s progress.
Notable Inclusions and Exclusions
While some familiar faces like Raheem Sterling were absent from the list, Southgate included players like Harry Kane, Harry Maguire, and Bukayo Saka despite recent injury concerns. The squad also features uncapped talents like Curtis Jones and Jarell Quansah, showcasing Southgate’s willingness to explore new options.
Potential Wild Cards
Southgate mentioned Luke Shaw as a wildcard due to his limited playing time this season. The manager expressed concerns about Shaw’s fitness but remains hopeful about his inclusion in the final squad for Euro 2024.
England’s Provisional Squad
- Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale, James Trafford.
- Defenders: Jarrad Branthwaite, Lewis Dunk, Joe Gomez, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Harry Maguire, Jarell Quansah, Luke Shaw, John Stones, Kieran Trippier, Kyle Walker.
- Midfielders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Conor Gallagher, Curtis Jones, Kobbie Mainoo, Declan Rice, Adam Wharton.
- Forwards: Jude Bellingham, Jarrod Bowen, Eberechi Eze, Phil Foden, Anthony Gordon, Jack Grealish, Harry Kane, James Maddison, Cole Palmer, Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins.
