(Football news) The Manchester United defender has been out by injuries for more than four months, and although he has resumed full training, Southgate has acknowledged that this match will come too soon.
Shaw was once remembered by Southgate as a “long shot” for the Euros, but the left-back is now undoubtedly a long shot for the remainder of the competition, even though the other 25 players should be ready.
While Joe Gomez and Ezri Konsa can do a job at left-back, Kieran Trippier – now on 50 caps for the national team – should reprise his role alongside Jordan Pickford, Kyle Walker, John Stones and the impressive Marc Guehi, having shaken off a slight calf concern.
Declan Rice is of course a midfield certainty, but there are question marks over his partner, as Trent Alexander-Arnold’s stint in midfield has not gone as planned; the Liverpool man lasted just 54 minutes in the recent draw with Denmark before being hooked for Conor Gallagher.
Even though Gallagher is on a yellow card, Southgate is reportedly planning to introduce him into the XI in place of Alexander-Arnold, meaning that Anthony Gordon and Eberechi Eze must wait their turn as Phil Foden, Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka continue in the final third,
Bukayo Saka’s spot on the right is safe, though, as is Harry Kane’s slot up front, despite suggestions that Ollie Watkins could threaten the captain’s place in the XI.
England possible starting lineup:
Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi, Trippier; Gallagher, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Foden; Kane
Also read: Italy will play Croatia in their final group stage match of Euro 2024