Gareth Southgate is contemplating giving Joe Gomez, the defender from Liverpool, another chance to play for the international team. However, Kalvin Phillips may lose his spot on the England squad due to his recent decline in performance.
On Thursday, Southgate will reveal his team for the upcoming friendly matches against Brazil and Belgium. Unfortunately, he has faced setbacks due to injuries in different positions. The main issue is a shortage in defenders, with Kieran Trippier, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guéhi, Reece James, and Luke Shaw all unable to play. There are also concerns surrounding Harry Maguire, Levi Colwill, and Ben Chilwell.
Southgate must make changes and is interested in Gomez, who has had a strong performance for Liverpool this season. The adaptable 26-year-old, who hasn’t appeared for England since October 2020, is an enticing choice due to his capability to play in any position in the defensive line. Southgate may also call back former Tottenham defender Eric Dier, who has been performing well for Bayern Munich, and has been keeping an eye on Everton’s young player Jarrad Branthwaite.
Unfortunately, the manager’s aspirations of impressive performances against Brazil and Belgium may be derailed by injuries. This camp is the last opportunity for England to prepare for Euro 2024, but they will not have their top players available. Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold, usually playing as a midfielder, is dealing with a knee injury, while Manchester City’s Jack Grealish has also been sidelined.
Unfortunately, Alexander-Arnold’s nonattendance is a setback for England, as they have a shortage of skilled players in the midfield position. Southgate faces a tough decision on whether to choose Phillips, who has faced difficulties since his temporary move to West Ham from City. The midfielder, who had a rough 18-month stint at City, was replaced at halftime during the previous weekend’s match.
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Southgate has consistently stood by Phillips, despite doubts surrounding his position on the team. It is probable that he will be given another opportunity to prove himself. Phillips holds significance for Southgate and the coach will be relying on him to regain his top form before the Euros. One major concern is the lack of competition in the midfield position.
Curtis Jones and Mason Mount have sustained injuries, while Eberechi Eze of Crystal Palace has experienced problems with his fitness. Kobbie Mainoo, a young player from Manchester United, may have a slight possibility of being called up, but it is more probable that he will be included in the under-21 team.
City’s lack of choices for the left-back position may result in another chance for Rico Lewis, who showed great promise in his debut against North Macedonia last November. Chelsea’s Cole Palmer is also expected to receive another invitation.
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James Maddison, a midfielder for Tottenham, is expected to make a comeback after being absent due to injury during the last training camp. Jarrod Bowen, a forward for West Ham, will be aiming to secure his spot in the squad. Anthony Gordon from Newcastle is optimistic about not having sustained a severe knee injury during Monday’s match against Chelsea. Southgate has been keeping an eye on the winger and there is a possibility of him being included in the squad.
Marcus Rashford has been inconsistent for United but the Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins looks likely to continue as Harry Kane’s back-up. Brentford’s Ivan Toney is available after his return from suspension but Newcastle’s Callum Wilson is injured. Chelsea’s Raheem Sterling has not played for England since the 2022 World Cup.
Source: theguardian.com
