England manager Gareth Southgate sent shockwaves through the football world today when he named his provisional 33-man squad for Euro 2024, with notable omissions including star forward Marcus Rashford and veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson.
Rashford’s Struggles Lead to Surprise Exclusion
The exclusion of Rashford is perhaps the most surprising. The 26-year-old boasts an impressive record of 60 caps and 17 goals for England, including crucial contributions at the 2022 World Cup. However, a dip in form at club level this season, where he has only managed seven goals in the Premier League for Manchester United, appears to be the reason behind Southgate’s decision.
Henderson’s Experience Fails to Secure Spot
Another surprising omission is Jordan Henderson. The 33-year-old midfielder has been a mainstay in Southgate’s squads for years, known for his leadership and experience. However, it seems his age and recent lack of playing time may have tipped the scales against him.
Uncapped Players Earn Call-Ups
While some experienced players missed out, Southgate has also shown a willingness to look to the future. Several uncapped players have received call-ups to the provisional squad, including Liverpool’s Curtis Jones and Jarell Quansah, Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, and Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton. This infusion of young talent suggests Southgate is building for the future while also keeping an eye on Euro 2024 success.
Southgate Defends Shaw’s Inclusion Despite Injury
Another talking point is the inclusion of Manchester United left-back Luke Shaw. Shaw has been sidelined with a lengthy injury, but Southgate has defended his decision, suggesting the defender could be fit in time for the tournament.
Southgate Has Tough Decisions Ahead
Southgate must cut his squad to a final 26 players by June 7th. With a strong core of established stars like Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling (who also missed out on the provisional squad), Declan Rice, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, alongside exciting young prospects, Southgate faces some tough decisions in the coming weeks.
Full Provisional Squad Breakdown:
- Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson (Nottingham Forest), Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal), James Trafford (Manchester City)
- Defenders: Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton), Lewis Dunk (Brighton & Hove Albion), Joe Gomez (Liverpool), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Jarell Quansah (Liverpool), Luke Shaw (Manchester United), John Stones (Manchester City), Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United), Kyle Walker (Manchester City)
- Midfielders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), Curtis Jones (Liverpool), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)
- Forwards: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United), Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Jack Grealish (Manchester City), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), James Maddison (Tottenham Hotspur), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ivan Toney (Brentford), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
