Football News Update: Euro 2024, Champions League, and More
The English national football team’s performances at Euro 2024 have been a topic of discussion, with their turgid displays drawing criticism. However, one area where they have excelled is their defensive solidity. England have conceded only once in three games, allowing fewer expected goals against than any other side at the tournament.
Kieran Trippier’s Role and Luke Shaw’s Availability
Kieran Trippier has played a crucial role in this defensive stinginess, performing well as a makeshift left-back. However, the team’s issues in possession have outweighed these defensive positives. Trippier’s natural inclination to look inside from the left-back position and his inability to offer a genuine threat on the overlap have been problematic.
The news of Luke Shaw’s availability to play against Slovakia, even if only as a substitute, has come as a welcome boost for England. Shaw’s absence due to a hamstring injury has been a major headache for manager Gareth Southgate, as the side has lacked a natural alternative in the left-back position.
“The absence of a natural left-back has been a concern for Southgate, who must rue the injury to Ben Chilwell, which ruled the Chelsea defender out of contention.”
Comparing England’s Attack at Euro 2024 and the 2022 World Cup
The impact of Shaw’s absence is evident when comparing England’s attacking locations at Euro 2024 to their performances at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where Shaw started all five games. In his absence in Germany, England’s attacks down the left flank have become fewer and less effective, with their only goals so far coming from the right side of the pitch.
The lack of balance on the left has been striking, with Trippier coming inside onto his right foot and Phil Foden also drifting inward, leaving England lacking width on that flank. This, in turn, has made them easier to defend against.
Southgate’s Options and the Importance of Shaw’s Fitness
Until Shaw is deemed fit to start, it might be beneficial for England to use Anthony Gordon, a left-winger more inclined to hold the width, ahead of Trippier. Alternatively, Bukayo Saka has been suggested as a left-footed option to replace the Newcastle defender.
Ultimately, England’s chances of going deep in the tournament are likely to hinge on the availability of their only natural left-back, Luke Shaw, for what lies ahead. An appearance of any kind against Slovakia would provide a much-needed boost for the team as they look to make a strong push at Euro 2024.
🔗 Source