Will it finally come home? England historically have always had good teams on paper but it has failed to materialize for them when it comes to major tournaments. From the likes of Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker to Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, David Beckham and Wayne Rooney, the Three Lions have failed to replicate the World Cup success of 1966. However, coming from a 4th place finish in Russia and with the English teams dominating the European competitions, can Gareth Southgate’s men be crowned European Champions this time around?
England have a tricky group in Croatia, Czech Republic and Scotland, but should be able to qualify to the knockout stages. The squad Southgate has selected does raise a few question marks, especially over the stability – with four right backs being selected, most notably Trent Alexander-Arnold. While England have a gold mine in that position, one should have question marks over the decision and may even slam Southgate for being unable to take tough decisions. Something that may harm England in their road to glory.
Jesse Lingard’s exclusion was also a surprise considering only Harry Kane had scored more goals in 2021 than him. However, England are still stacked in the forward position with Mason Mount, Jack Grealish and Phil Foden all being called up. Declan Rice and Kalvin Phillips will have a huge role to play in shielding the defense with Jordan Henderson and his leadership abilities completing the midfield options.
Another headache for Southgate will be in the goalkeeping department. While Jordan Pickford has been the number 1 option, his form this season for Everton has put a question mark over his place while Dean Henderson has showed he is up for the task over the last few seasons.
Harry Kane without a shimmer of doubt will lead the line for England.
With four right backs, it may be safe to assume England will go with a back three with Kyle Walker playing as the third center back. England will look to use the creativity of their wide players. Harry Kane will have a big role to play in the business end of the pitch. The Premier League Golden Boot winner has been in fine form for Tottenham and will hope to replicate it in the tournament.
England Players to Look Out For:
Jadon Sancho
The winger may not have enjoyed the best start to the season with Dortmund and has a very unclear future with Premier League teams pursuing his signature, but Jadon Sancho ensured he ended the season on a high with 16 goals and 17 assists to power Dortmund into next season’s Champions League. The right winger has a killer cross which will benefit the likes of Kane and Calvert-Lewin. He can play on the right and also through the middle if required. Sancho likes to drift in when playing on the wings which will benefit the attacking wing-backs of England.
Trent Alexander-Arnold
The Liverpool right back was going to be the headline news whatever the decision taken, but Alexander-Arnold finds himself on the team. Whether he will be a starter for England or not is a tale which will be told by time but, nevertheless, he is one player that can change a game with his attacking abilities. His defensive frailties may mean he has to sit on the bench for majority of the tournament, but Trent Alexander-Arnold is a player who can make an impact for England.
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England Expected Line-Up (3-4-3): Dean Henderson; Harry Maguire, John Stones, Kyle Walker; Luke Shaw, Jordan Henderson, Declan Rice, Reece James; Raheem Sterling, Harry Kane, Jadon Sancho
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