Football News: Luke Shaw Fit to Play for England in Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals
In a boost for England ahead of their Euro 2024 quarter-final clash against Switzerland, Manchester United defender Luke Shaw has been declared fit to play. The news comes as a relief to England manager Gareth Southgate, who had previously included Shaw in his 26-man squad despite the player’s lack of match fitness since February due to a severe hamstring injury.
With Ben Chilwell’s injury troubles, Southgate was forced to rely on Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier as a makeshift left-back during the group stages and the last-16 tie against Slovakia. England’s performance on the left flank has been less than impressive, with Trippier’s reliance on his right foot and Phil Foden’s tendency to drift inside leaving them ineffective.
The reports suggest that Shaw “is set to be passed fit” to make his first appearance at Euro 2024, although Southgate faces a dilemma over whether to start the defender given the risks involved. The original plan was to reintroduce Shaw off the bench, but the manager may consider gambling on his inclusion from the outset, given Shaw’s importance to the team.
Southgate is also contemplating a formation change, with a switch to a three-at-the-back system being considered. This could allow Shaw to feature either as a left-wing-back or in a central defensive role, a position he has played under Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag.
Another option for Southgate is to use Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka as a makeshift wing-back, but former England international Teddy Sheringham has warned against this, stating that Saka “didn’t look comfortable” in that role against Slovakia.
As England prepare for their quarter-final clash against Switzerland, the potential return of Luke Shaw could provide a much-needed boost to their defensive stability and attacking threat on the left flank. Southgate will have a crucial decision to make ahead of the crucial encounter.
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