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England's Euro 2024 Squad - Southgate's Big Decisions

Gareth Southgate's England squad for Euro 2024 has been widely discussed since they were eliminated in the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals by France. This debate will soon end, as the England manager will announce his provisional squad for Germany on Tuesday at 14:00 BST. 

We examine some key points before the announcement and invite you to choose your preferred starting XI for the Three Lions' opening match against Serbia.

Is Rashford's Place at Risk? The Wide Forward Issue

This is probably England's most competitive area. At one time, Southgate's front three seemed set to be Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane, and Marcus Rashford. However, Rashford’s inconsistent form and fitness with Manchester United have opened up the left side of England’s attack. 

Rashford's speed has always been an asset, ensuring his spot even when not performing well. However, Phil Foden has had a stellar season, often playing on the left, making it tough for Southgate to exclude him. Anthony Gordon has also impressed for Newcastle and made his England debut in March. His work ethic and ability to get past defenders are big advantages. Jack Grealish, who missed the last international camp, has had a mixed season with Manchester City but remains a crucial impact player for England. Cole Palmer is also a contender, having scored 22 Premier League goals for Chelsea this season with a perfect penalty record.

Keep Faith with the Old Guard? Big Decisions in Midfield

Two of the three central midfield spots are almost certain, with Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham. The question is who will fill the third position. Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold, considered a midfielder for England, has been sidelined by injury. Jordan Henderson's move to Saudi Arabia and then Ajax makes his squad position uncertain, and Kalvin Phillips was not chosen after a disappointing loan to West Ham. Manchester United's Kobbie Mainoo, who debuted for England in March, has impressed and is being considered for the starting XI.

Watkins or Toney? Who Backs Up Kane?

Harry Kane is England's top striker, but a back injury raises concerns about his understudies. Ollie Watkins had an amazing season with Aston Villa, scoring 19 non-penalty goals and providing 13 assists. He has played 11 times for England, starting four games and scoring three goals. Southgate has mentioned that the team needs to adapt to Watkins' style, as he plays differently from Kane. Brentford’s Ivan Toney is another option, similar in style to Kane. He scored his first England goal from the penalty spot in March but has struggled with club form lately.

Left-Back Problems? Southgate's Defensive Issues

The left-back position has been challenging for Southgate. Newcastle's Kieran Trippier has played there in important games recently. Manchester United's Luke Shaw would be the first choice if fit, but he is recovering from an injury. Ben Chilwell has also faced injuries and did not impress against Brazil and Belgium. Manchester City’s Rico Lewis was man of the match in his first England start and was called up as an injury replacement recently. Liverpool's Joe Gomez is another option after being recalled. City's Kyle Walker is likely to start at right-back, with John Stones and Harry Maguire expected at centre-back. Bayern Munich's Eric Dier boosted his chances with a strong loan spell, while Arsenal's Ben White, part of the Premier League's best defense, remains unavailable. Southgate mentioned that increased squad sizes from 23 to 26 players could allow him to take a risk on not fully fit players.