Gareth Southgate is in for a selection headache when it comes to the European Championships this summer, with new stars making their case to be on the plane.
England are blessed with a plethora of talented players, with many tipping the Three Lions to go all the way at Euro 2024 in Germany. Here are some of the players we think may sneak into the final England squad for the Euros…
Kobbie Mainoo
Embed from Getty ImagesKobbie Mainoo is having an impressive breakthrough season at Manchester United. At the age of just 18, he has brought maturity and composure to Erik ten Hag’s midfield. Playing alongside the experienced Casemiro, Mainoo has looked comfortable on the big stage and is gaining momentum to be in the England senior squad. His last-minute winner at Wolves was a stand-out moment, but his consistency and quality have made him look ready for an international tournament.
He is rumored to be set for a call up to the upcoming England U21’s squad, but he is also still eligible to play for Ghana. With question marks surrounding Jordan Henderson and Kalvin Phillips this season, Mainoo at least deserves consideration.
Curtis Jones
Embed from Getty ImagesCurtis Jones has made 28 appearances for Liverpool so far this season across four competitions, scoring five goals with three assists to his name. Jones has been a crucial part of Jurgen Klopp’s midfield and at the age of 23, he is blossoming into an integral and versatile member of the Liverpool squad.
Jones starred in England U21’s Euros triumph last summer and he’s only improved since, proving he can consistently start for a club chasing honours on four fronts this season. He could perfectly slot in alongside Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham in midfield if required.
Ross Barkley
Embed from Getty ImagesRoss Barkley has not been in an England squad for a major tournament since the 2014 World Cup. As other prospects continued to flourish, Barkley fell down the pecking order with moves to Chelsea, Aston Villa, OGC Nice not working out as hoped.
His move to Luton Town in the summer surprised many, who wondered if there was still life left in the 30-year-old to compete at the top level? With three goals and three assists this season, as well as eye-catching showings against the likes of Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United, a place at Euro 2024 could complete one of football’s most surprising comebacks in recent years.
Jarrad Branthwaite
Embed from Getty ImagesAt just 21 years old, Jarrad Branthwaite already has plenty of experience under his belt. He spent last season on loan at PSV, where he made 27 league appearances in a side that finished second in the Eredivisie.
Branthwaite has won plenty of plaudits for his performances at Everton this season, with his combination of size, strength and speed the perfect match for a Sean Dyche team. He may have an outside chance of making the England squad, especially if he proves key to Everton surviving the drop.
Anthony Gordon
Embed from Getty ImagesAnthony Gordon’s £45 million move from Everton to Newcastle United was met with a lot of initial doubt from fans, but under Eddie Howe he is flourishing this season. Across 40 Premier League games for the Toon, the winger has scored nine goals, and notched up five assists.
In addition, Gordon was a talisman in the England U21’s Euros success last year, scoring the winner in their quarter-final win against Portugal. He has tournament experience and has got a taste of the Champions League this season as well. At 22 and being one of Newcastle’s most important players, Gordon could thrive under the opportunity to be the left-winger for England this summer.
