As the final stages of the UEFA Euro 2024 qualifiers approach, England’s squad announcement for the upcoming games against Malta and North Macedonia has generated much anticipation. This squad selection marks an important point in the road to the tournament next summer in Germany. England secured their spot in the tournament following a 3-1 victory over Italy last month, and now, they aim to wrap up the qualifiers in style.

Gareth Southgate’s Selection Criteria and Key Call-Ups

Gareth Southgate, the long-standing manager of the Three Lions, has named a 25-man squad for the last two qualification fixtures of the campaign. While England has already qualified for Euro 2024, Southgate is keen to maintain momentum as the squad prepares for a busy year ahead. The latest squad includes a blend of experience and fresh talent, with some notable inclusions that have raised eyebrows. 

Among the standout names is Cole Palmer, who has impressed with his recent form at Manchester City, earning a deserved place in the squad​. Meanwhile, Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Rico Lewis (Manchester City), and Cole Palmer (Manchester City) are expected to bring youthful energy to the team as England prepares to face North Macedonia on November 20 and Malta on November 17.

Key Absentees and Injuries

While Southgate’s squad is packed with talent, not all key players are fit for selection. Jude Bellingham, who has been in outstanding form for Real Madrid, will unfortunately miss out due to injury. His absence leaves a gap in the midfield, but England has other talented players like Conor Gallagher (Chelsea) and Jordan Henderson (Al-Ettifaq) to fill the void​. Additionally, Luke Shaw is also sidelined due to an injury​.

Another notable absentee is Ben White, the Arsenal defender, who has made himself unavailable for selection after his exit from the . Despite Southgate’s overtures to reintegrate him into the fold for Euro 2024, White has remained out of the national team picture.

Tactical Changes and Selection Surprises

Southgate’s squad continues to show the depth and versatility of England’s player pool. There have been a few surprises, particularly with the inclusion of Noni Madueke (Chelsea), who has been in stellar form recently​. This marks a potential change in Southgate’s tactics, looking to add more flair to the attack alongside established stars like Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka. Southgate’s approach seems to be focusing on balance, incorporating both experienced players and younger, dynamic talents to ensure versatility and depth as the team gears up for next summer.

Key Matches Ahead: What’s at Stake?

Although the qualification is already secured, these final two matches carry significance. The upcoming fixtures give Southgate a chance to fine-tune his squad ahead of the Euro 2024 finals. The game against Malta, which will take place at Wembley on November 17, is particularly important for securing a solid finish in the qualifiers​. Following this, England will travel to Skopje to take on North Macedonia, a crucial test before the team heads into tournament mode next year​.

Key Changes to the England Squad

Gareth Southgate has named a 25-man squad for these final qualifiers, with a few notable absentees and inclusions. John Stones (Manchester City) and Eddie Nketiah (Arsenal) have dropped out due to injuries. Stones’ absence is particularly impactful, as he plays a crucial role in England’s defense, and his injury means Southgate must find a reliable replacement. However, Bukayo Saka (Arsenal) is included despite concerns over a recent knock sustained during a Champions League match against Sevilla​.

On the other hand, Callum Wilson (Newcastle United) has returned to the squad, offering a much-needed option in attack. Raheem Sterling (Chelsea), however, has once again been left out, marking the continuation of a trend since the 2022 World Cup. Southgate explained that while Sterling remains an important player with a significant role in England’s journey, the current squad offers strong competition for spots, particularly in the forward areas. The emergence of players like Jarrod Bowen (West Ham), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle), and Cole Palmer (Manchester City) has made the winger position more competitive​.

The Full Squad Breakdown

Goalkeepers: Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal), Jordan Pickford (Everton), and Sam Johnstone (Crystal Palace).

Defenders: Levi Colwill (Chelsea), Lewis Dunk (Brighton), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Fikayo Tomori (AC Milan), Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United), Kyle Walker (Manchester City).

Midfielders: Declan Rice (Arsenal), Jordan Henderson (Al-Ettifaq), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), and Kalvin Phillips (Manchester City).

Forwards: Jarrod Bowen (West Ham), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Jack Grealish (Manchester City), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), James Maddison (Tottenham Hotspur), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Marcus Rashford (Manchester United), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa), Callum Wilson (Newcastle United).

FAQs

When will the final England squad for Euro 2024 be announced?

Gareth Southgate’s final squad selection for Euro 2024 is expected to be confirmed in the lead-up to the tournament, after the provisional squad has been named. This final squad will be announced after Southgate evaluates player performances and any injuries​.

Why was Marcus Rashford omitted from the squad?

Marcus Rashford’s omission from the provisional squad for Euro 2024 came as a surprise to many. Southgate explained that despite Rashford’s experience, other players in his position had better seasons. His exclusion is due to the form of other forwards rather than injury​.

Are there any notable omissions besides Rashford?

Yes, another major exclusion was Jordan Henderson, who has missed out largely due to injury concerns. He was unable to regain the necessary intensity after missing five weeks of action, which influenced Southgate’s decision. Luke Shaw’s place in the squad is also uncertain, as he remains a “long shot” for the tournament due to fitness issues​.

Which players were included in the provisional squad?

The provisional squad for England includes a mix of experienced and younger talents. Key players like Harry Kane, Bukayo Saka, Phil Foden, and Declan Rice are included, along with rising stars such as Jude Bellingham and Eberechi Eze. Notable players like Kieran Trippier, Harry Maguire, and Jack Grealish also made the cut​.

How many players will Southgate take to Euro 2024?

The final squad for Euro 2024 will consist of 26 players. However, with several players in contention for spots, Southgate will have to cut down his provisional list of 33. This includes making tough decisions in forward areas​.

In Summary

As England heads into the final two games of their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, the focus will be on cementing their squad for the tournament. Southgate has a strong group of players at his disposal, but with key injuries and tough decisions regarding player omissions, these qualifiers will give him the opportunity to finalize his team and ensure England enters the Euros with confidence​.

For those following closely, the England squad announcement is a reminder of how dynamic international football can be, with players emerging and dropping out as the tournament approaches. Fans will be eagerly watching as the final preparations unfold before the grand stage of Euro 2024.

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