England Set for Tough Semi-Final Test Against Netherlands at Euro 2024

As England prepares to face the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-final on Wednesday, former England captain Stuart Pearce believes Gareth Southgate has just one selection dilemma to overcome.

Selection Dilemma in Central Defense

Pearce expects Southgate to largely stick with the same starting lineup that has taken the Three Lions to their second consecutive European Championship semi-final. The only decision the England manager has to make is whether to bring back Marc Guehi in central defense or stick with Ezri Konsa, who impressed in the win over Switzerland.

“I think the big selection dilemma is whether he keeps Ezri Konsa in or whether he brings Marc Guehi back,” Pearce told talkSPORT. “Guehi’s been one of the better players, I’ve got to say. I think he’s played very well. So there’ll be a question mark.”

Pearce suggests Southgate may lean towards bringing Guehi back, but the England boss could opt for Konsa if he believes the aerial threat of Netherlands’ striker Wout Weghorst will be a factor.

Continuity in Team Selection

Outside of the center-back position, Pearce expects Southgate to keep the same formation and starting lineup that has served England well so far in the tournament. This includes the continued use of a back three, which Pearce believes has provided “more fluency within the team.”

The former England defender also discussed the situation of Luke Shaw, who has been gradually reintegrated into the squad after injury. Pearce believes it may be too soon to start Shaw at left wing-back, and the versatile defender may be better suited to the left side of the three-man defense.

Tough Test Against the Netherlands

With the Netherlands set to provide England’s toughest test of the tournament so far, Pearce believes Southgate will opt for continuity in his team selection as the Three Lions aim to book their place in a second consecutive European Championship final.

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