Football News: Southgate’s Euro 2024 Squad Selection Draws Scrutiny
In a move that has raised eyebrows among football pundits, England manager Gareth Southgate has included Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale in his 26-man squad for the upcoming Euro 2024 tournament. The decision has been met with criticism, as Ramsdale has struggled for playing time at the club level, having been usurped by Spanish international David Raya in the pecking order at the Emirates.
“I don’t have any worries about his [Ramsdale’s] quality but I worry about his mental strength, because he’s been through a very difficult year. It was sometimes very embarrassing to watch him on the bench.”
- Former Arsenal and Chelsea star Emmanuel Petit
Emile Heskey, a former England international, believes Southgate may have selected Ramsdale simply to “be around it” and provide experience to the younger generation, rather than with the expectation of him playing a significant role.
The Arsenal backup goalkeeper made the final squad ahead of Burnley’s James Trafford, who was initially included in England’s provisional 33-man squad but ultimately missed out on the final selection. Heskey suggested that while Trafford is a “young under 21s player,” Southgate may have opted for Ramsdale to provide more experience and stability within the squad.
As England prepare for the Euro 2024 campaign, Heskey and Petit have highlighted the team’s defensive vulnerabilities, particularly with the absence of Harry Maguire, who is considered a “big loss” for the backline. Heskey, however, believes that the current England squad is “more gelled” compared to previous tournaments, which could be a key factor in their pursuit of the European Championship title.
The debate surrounding Southgate’s squad selection and England’s chances at Euro 2024 is sure to continue in the lead-up to the tournament, with football enthusiasts eagerly anticipating the team’s performance on the international stage.
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