England’s Euro 2024 Campaign: Balancing Talent, Tactical Choices, and Defensive Challenges
The 2024 Euros are in full swing, and England will look to get their first major football trophy since 1966. Manager Gareth Southgate and his squad will start the tournament against Serbia, hoping to make a statement. England’s roster stands out as one of the strongest in the tournament, with talent all across the board. The Three Lions will look to turn their on-paper talent into success in this year’s Euros, and here are some key points to consider.
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Where Will Phil Foden play?
The 24-year-old attacker killed it for Manchester City this past season, scoring 19 goals and earning himself the 2024 Premier League Player of the Year. Foden excelled in the midfield for City, helping them win their fourth league title. However, Southgate has been hesitant to put Foden in the midfield alongside Declan Rice. While Foden has the potential to be an X-factor for England in this year’s Euros, Southgate’s reluctance may be limiting his ability to contribute fully to the team.
Southgate’s cautious approach, favoring more experienced or defensively-minded players in central positions, raises questions about whether England is maximizing its talent. The coming matches will show whether Southgate’s decisions pay off or if adjustments are needed to unlock the full capabilities of England’s rising star. England fans have made their love for Foden very well known, even creating a new song honoring him ahead of the match against Serbia.
Squad Depth and Balance
Looking at the Three Lions roster, it’s no wonder they are among the favorites to win the Euros. England’s squad depth for the 2024 Euros is a significant asset, giving Southgate various options across all positions. With top talents like Harry Kane, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka leading the attack, supported by a midfield featuring Declan Rice and Trent Alexander-Arnold, England can maintain stellar play even when rotating players in and out of the game. The depth of attack is strong, and Cole Palmer, Ollie Watkins, Anthony Gordon, and Jarrod Bowen are all very capable of stepping in if needed.
The defensive lineup, led by experienced players such as Kyle Walker and John Stones, further adds to the team’s depth. While England is relatively young, with 12 out of the 26 players on the roster headed to their first major tournament, there is no denying all the talent across the board. Some skeptics may view England’s youth as a potential disadvantage, but Southgate has emphasized how the mix of youth and experience complement each other well. This combination not only brings fresh energy and excitement but also benefits from the leadership and experience provided by seasoned players.
England’s Defensive Struggles
While England has an electric attack, it could be their defense that holds them back in the Euros. With Harry Maguire failing to make the team due to injury and Luke Shaw’s status still up in the air, Southgate faces challenges in solidifying the backline. As the only experienced center-back at the international tournament level, John Stones will be vital to the team’s success.
Although a right-back, Kieran Trippier will start at left-back against Serbia, while Kyle Walker and Marc Guéhi round out the backline. The Three Lions’ defense will be tested in their match against Serbia today, going against their dynamic striker Aleksandar Mitrovic. Even with these setbacks, finding a cohesive defensive unit will be crucial for England’s hopes of progressing deep into the tournament.
As England embarks on their Euro 2024 journey, expectations are higher than ever, and the Three Lions will hope to lift their first major trophy in nearly 60 years.
