England manager Gareth Southgate has provided a fitness update on Manchester United left-back, Luke Shaw, ahead of the Euro 2024. The 28-year-old defender has been out of action since February when he was substituted at halftime during a Premier League match against Luton Town.
Despite only making 15 starts in all competitions last season due to recurring injuries, Shaw was included in England's provisional squad for the upcoming tournament. According to Southgate, Shaw is recovering well and there are high hopes for his participation in the Euros scheduled to take place in Germany this summer.
England manager, Gareth Southgate, said,
“Everything we’ve needed to see in running and recovery is on track, progressing well. Exact timelines are more difficult to predict,”
“Of course, every step has to go well to get there. We are pleased with the progress he’s making. It’s definitely a more optimistic picture than week or so ago.”
Scarcity of left-backs in squad for Euro 2024
However, Southgate also emphasized that more work needs to be done before Shaw can return to game situations. This makes it surprising that he is currently the only specialist left-back included in England’s squad.
Chelsea defenders Ben Chilwell and Levi Colwill were not selected for the tournament despite their ability to play on the left side of defence. Kieran Trippier could potentially fill this position as an alternative option even though he is naturally a right-back. The Newcastle United player will captain England’s warm-up game against Bosnia & Herzegovina at St James’ Park on Monday night.
Experimental lineup expected for warm-up clashes
Southgate plans significant changes for this friendly international match as part of his strategy leading up to Euro 2024. Key players such as Jude Bellingham - fresh off his Champions League victory with Real Madrid - and Harry Kane will be rested during this game.
Anthony Gordon, Bukayo Saka and Harry Maguire have also been given additional recovery time following late-season injuries while John Stones won't participate due to his late arrival at camp after Manchester City’s FA Cup final defeat by Man Utd.
The warm-up match will see Cole Palmer making his first England start, while Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi will be given a chance to prove his worth for a starting position at Euro 2024. Youngsters Adam Wharton and Kobbie Mainoo could also get some game time, although Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to start alongside Declan Rice in midfield.
This experimental lineup reflects Southgate's strategy of testing new combinations and giving opportunities to fresh talent ahead of the major tournament. It will be interesting for sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts alike to see how these changes play out on the field.
