Euro 2020 is almost upon us and England are the favourites to win their first European title. There will be plenty of anxious moments in June and hopefully July. However, the anxiety has already began as players wonder if they will be in Gareth Southgate’s Euro 2020 squad. Just who are those who look guaranteed to be named for the championships?
It’s a tough task for the England boss with plenty of candidates. The good news for him is that it’s been announced that squads can have 26 players. That’s three more than the usual, so a bit of an easier task for Southgate but still a difficult one.
Just to illustrate how tough the task is let’s look at the 24 players named for the recent World Cup qualifiers. It was full of talented players but not in that squad were internationals such as Marcus Rashford, Jordan Pickford, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Harry Winks, Jack Grealish, Jordan Henderson, Jadon Sancho, Mason Greenwood and Danny Ings.
In terms of goalkeepers, it looks certain that Nick Pope will be in the squad. He’s still only got seven England caps but seems to be Southgate’s number one choice. Jordan Pickford has 30 caps but hasn’t always impressed in goal. He is likely to be the second-choice goalkeeper with Dean Henderson getting named just ahead of Sam Johnstone.
England’s defending is key to how they get on at Euro 2020. Too many mistakes have been made in the past. There is at least plenty of experience in this area. John Stones, Eric Dier and Kyle Walker have 142 caps between them and should all be in the squad. The same goes for Harry Maguire if fit.
Will Trent-Alexander Arnold be included? Heaven knows what Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp will say if he’s not! The 22-year-old has returned to form for his club side. His ability to make assists and score from free kicks should see him back in the fold. The same goes for Luke Shaw who has had an excellent season for Manchester United.
Midfield is where the real selection headaches begin. England have a talented group of players and Phil Foden and Mason Mount look certain to be included. If Southgate wants some experience in the squad, then Jordan Henderson also looks likely to be selected.
Declan Rice is another young player likely to be included. Jesse Lingard could well be named after his good performances for West Ham. If you intend betting on euro 2021 then a read of the betfootball.com guide is essential reading.
As far as forwards go, England are spoilt for choice. Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling and Marcus Rashford can forget about a quiet June. Dominic Calvert-Lewin is also likely to be selected, he’d be great coming on as a substitute. Will five forwards be taken? If so, then Danny Ings is a strong candidate if he’s fit. Let’s hope that whoever Southgate chooses, England can lift the trophy.