Football News Update: Euro 2024, Champions League, and More
In a surprising turn of events, Erik ten Hag’s claim about Luke Shaw’s fitness for the England national team has been rebutted. The left-back has been tipped to feature for the Three Lions against Denmark on Thursday night during the Euro 2024 group stage.
This season, Shaw has struggled with injuries, making only 15 appearances for Manchester United across all competitions. However, despite his recent setback, the 27-year-old has been included in Gareth Southgate’s final 26-man England squad for the European Championship.
Southgate’s decision to take a risk on Shaw comes as he faces a shortage of options at left-back, with Chelsea star Ben Chilwell also missing most of the season due to injury. Shaw is the only natural left-back in Southgate’s squad, though versatile defenders Kieran Trippier, Joe Gomez, and Ezri Konsa can cover the position if needed.
“if England [are] winning.”
- Journalist Henry Winter
In England’s opening match against Serbia on Sunday, Trippier was deployed at left-back as the Three Lions secured a 1-0 victory. Jude Bellingham’s early header proved to be the difference, but Southgate’s side had to withstand some nervy moments in the second half.
Despite being named among the substitutes for the Serbia game, Shaw was reportedly training separately on Tuesday, focusing on a recovery session. However, journalist Henry Winter has suggested that the Manchester United defender could potentially feature against Denmark on Thursday, “if England [are] winning.”
This development contradicts Ten Hag’s previous statement, where the Dutchman claimed that Shaw would not be fit enough to feature in any of England’s group stage matches. The manager’s comments have now been refuted, as the left-back appears to be making progress in his recovery and could play a part in the upcoming clash against the Danes.
As the Euro 2024 tournament continues, fans and pundits will be keeping a close eye on Shaw’s fitness and whether he can make a significant contribution to England’s campaign. The Three Lions will be hoping to build on their opening win and secure their place in the knockout stages of the competition.
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