England squad omissions and squad expectations for euros
The Three Lions head to the tournament as many fans' favourites to lift the trophy, and it's easy to see why given their wealth of talent.
So deep is the England well, though, that a number of high-profile players missed out on selection,
So I want to highlight areas that disappointed me specifically in terms of must-have players who were not selected , ranked in no specific order for the 26-man squad as England need to overcome the jinx of not having won a major tournament since 1960's.
I will also give my predicted starters along each area of the pitch, with a formation
STRIKERS
No issues here with any omissions
I expect Kane to start
Kane could be paired with either Watkins, or Toney if Southgate is flexible.
I don't expect 3 forwards to start as the midfield and wing options are too deep and talented
Luckily Gordon, Foden, and Bowen are also capable of playing in half spaces or can be used temporarily at striker position, although not so proficient .
Southgate is still blessed with options if he chooses to use them
GOALKEEPERS
No issues here again
I expect the experienced Pickford to start most games
If there are any issues the other keepers can cover at any time
MIDFIELDERS
James Maddison(CAM) -
His vision and pinpoint passing can tear apart packed defenses, something they fear the chosen midfield might struggle with. Maddison's long-range shooting adds another layer of threat, a weapon some fans feel is missing from the current squad. While other midfielders might offer experience or defensive stability, fans believe Maddison's attacking prowess could be the difference between success and disappointment.
Southgate is left with Foden as the only standout CAM ,a player of similar abilities as Maddison with more positional flexibility and boasts far superior numbers at club level at the raw age of 24. However, having Maddison would only add to the squad depth in this position
I would easily take him over Wharton without second-guessing, Maddison has played all the matches leading up to the tournament , been Spurs creative linchpin and all of a sudden he realizes he's not there....so gutted that he apologized and expressed his disappointment on Instagram
Southgate does like defensive midfielders....but when u have the likes of Rice and Bellingham and whatever be the chosen midfield combo of Southgate....Maddison would balance that out with his technical and spatial awareness.....always ready to drop a bit deep or forward....providing the perfect link between defense and attack.....
As things stand this area is still very promising and I expect that this area will be heavily reliant on Rice(DM), Bellingham(CM), and Trent(CM) with Gallagher(CM) and Mainoo(DM) being rotational options
Stones is an outside option as DM as Guardiola has adapted his game to the position ....he could bring some added composure in this area
Southgate should look for balance in this area , enough to aid defense and attack....belnd of youth and experience ....to implement his tactics...hopefully he is not pragmatic this time round!
WINGERS
Jack Grealish(LW/CAM)
His ability to glide past defenders and create something out of nothing is a rare talent. Fans see him as a game-changer, someone who can take the game by the scruff of the neck and turn the tide in England's favor. His experience in high-pressure situations with Manchester City is also a valuable asset that some feel is missing from the squad. Grealish's big-game pedigree could have been invaluable, especially in the knockout stages where nerves run high. Furthermore, his exclusion might be seen as a missed opportunity to help him flourish on the international stage. However, the lack of game time seems to be the reason he is omitted
Jadon Sancho(LW)
His recent resurgence with Borussia Dortmund, particularly in the Champions League knockout stages, showcased a return to top form. This sudden improvement makes his omission feel particularly harsh, especially considering his struggles coincided with an underwhelming stint at Manchester United. With the winger position being fiercely competitive, some fans argue Southgate is overlooking Sancho's current ability in favor of players who were consistent throughout the entire season. This highlights a potential clash in selection philosophies, with some fans questioning whether Southgate prioritizes consistent performers over players who peak at crucial moments.
I personally prefer either of these 2 over Jarrod Bowen who is relatively inexperienced and less talented as evident that he's playing for West Ham, however he might have got the nod due to his versatility in the frontline as he can play Striker as well as right-wing
Eze(LW) too being his direct competitor for the left wing spot, plays for a mid-table Crystal Palace team. He has however been a standout performer in the EPL but the inexperience suggests that Sancho or Grealish would be better suited for the role,
I must say this was easily the toughest choice as they have too many wingers....it is hard to argue not selecting Palmer (RW/CAM), saka(RW), Foden(RW/CAM) and Gordon (LW/CAM) as they have had stellar seasons being feature as some of the best youngsters in europe.
As it stands I expect Gordon(LW/CAM/ST) , Saka(RW) and Foden(RW/CAM /ST) to start
Rotational options are Palmer(RW/CAM) , Jarrod Bowen (RW/ST)and Eze(LW)
Southgate must again use flexibility to utilise these options but it is still a headache!
DEFENSE
Jarad Branthwaite(CB/LB)
Another dodgy one - Jarrad Branthwaite's(CB/LB) impressive breakout season for Everton wasn't enough to secure him a spot.
The young defender helped Everton tighten up their defense, with 12 clean sheets and impressive individual stats. He even earned his senior debut recently, this omission is a blow but allows him to rest before next season.
He contended with Luke Shaw (LB/CB) who has rarely featured in the season and also lacks the defensive strength of Branthwaite even while playing for Manchester United, his injury-ridden career also doesn't add to his cause but as it stands he is the first choice LB.On his day he is capable of being CB as he has adapted that role very well under Erik Ten Hag
Lewis Dunk(CB), 32 years of age, eventually got the last defender spot as Harry Maguire(CB), their stalwart had fitness concerns on the last few days of national friendlies. Dunk had a decent season although not an outstanding season for Brighton as he led them to an 11th place finish, worse than their European finish last campaign.
The nod's was eventually given to
1)Konsa(CB/RB) is inexperienced but has constantly improved and been a mainstay at Aston Villa ,
2)Trippier(RB) had a poor season by his standards but still had great numbers for chance creation.
3)Gomez(CB/RB/LB) had revived himself under Klopp showcasing his versatility and should cover in case fitness issues occur at the back
I expect southgate to start Trippier(RB) Shaw (LB) Stones(CB) and Walker(CB) as a back 4
Alternately , the back 3 that I expect to start are Walker(CB) Stones(CB) Gomez(CB),
A back 5 is also an option but the least productive one in my opinion because that is just a negative approach and not something fans can expect much out of.
Tripper(RB) Stones(CB) ,Walker(CB) ,Gomez(CB) Luke Shaw(LB)
The rotational options in defense would be Konsa(CB/RB) , Dunk(CB) and Guehi(CB)
This area is the most concerning one in terms of fitness and defensive cover at full back as the seasoned campaigners Chillwell (LB) and Reece James(RB/CB) miss out due to poor injury-ridden seasons, both are capable enough of defensive and attacking output. Not having Maguire(CB) as a leader also could be a big blow, which puts Stones(CB) in the limelight
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