Euro 2024: England’s Lineup Dilemma Ahead of Knockout Stages
As England prepares for the Euro 2024 knockout stages, the clamor for Gareth Southgate to make changes to the starting XI is growing. With less than a handful of players currently justifying their place in the team, the manager faces a crucial decision ahead of the crucial matches.
Pre-tournament, Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham were expected to be two of the standout performers for the Three Lions in Germany. However, they have faced calls to be dropped after underwhelming massively during the group stages. Their “undroppable” status is perhaps no longer intact, but their standing in Southgate’s mind makes them far more likely than others to remain in the side.
“Changes are required to breathe life into England, and this sentiment was reinforced by the substitutes making a positive impact off the bench against Slovenia.”
In our analysis, we’ve tried to get into Southgate’s mind and ranked his latest starting XI (based on his thinking) on their chances of being dropped for the knockout stages:
- Conor Gallagher: The Chelsea midfielder’s poor performance against Slovenia has made him the most likely to be dropped from the starting lineup, with Kobbie Mainoo and Adam Wharton potentially preferred in midfield.
- Kieran Trippier: The Newcastle United defender has been solid defensively, but his lack of a left foot and the absence of Luke Shaw have hindered England’s effectiveness on the left flank.
- Bukayo Saka: The Arsenal star has been unable to replicate his early tournament form, and the emergence of Cole Palmer has strengthened calls for him to be replaced.
- Phil Foden: The Premier League’s best player has been one of England’s better performers, but Southgate’s reluctance to play him in his preferred position may see him drop out of the XI.
- Kyle Walker: The Manchester City veteran provided a vital contribution against Serbia, but his recent performances have been underwhelming, potentially leading to a tactical switch by Southgate.
- Declan Rice: The Arsenal midfielder has been a shadow of his best self at the tournament, but his importance to the team means he is unlikely to be dropped.
- Jude Bellingham: The Real Madrid superstar has faced criticism for his performances, with calls for him to be moved deeper in the midfield. However, Southgate’s reluctance to change his tactical approach may see Bellingham remain in the lineup.
- Harry Kane: The England captain has been below par in the group stages, but his position as the team’s main striker makes him likely to retain his place in the starting lineup.
- Marc Guehi: The Crystal Palace star has been a surprise standout for England, impressing in the heart of the defense and cementing his place as one of Southgate’s undroppable players.
- John Stones: The Manchester City defender has stepped up in the absence of long-term centre-back partner Harry Maguire, and he remains one of England’s best defenders.
- Jordan Pickford: The Everton goalkeeper has been a reliable performer for England, and his place in the team is not in doubt as he is yet to be seriously tested.
As England prepares for the knockout stages, Southgate faces a critical decision in shaping his team to progress further in the Euro 2024 tournament.
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