As the anticipation for Euro 2024 intensifies, football enthusiasts find themselves eagerly contemplating the potential starting lineup for the Three Lions who will be donning the Euro 2024 England shirt come June 14th. With England emerging as joint favourites alongside France, the stakes are high. In this analysis, we dissect the likely starting XI for the opening fixture against Serbia on June 16, delving into each position’s intricacies and the rationale behind our predictions.
Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford
Club: Everton
Jordan Pickford stands as Gareth Southgate’s unwavering choice between the posts, and despite initial competition from Aaron Ramsdale, recent developments have solidified Pickford’s position. Ramsdale’s absence as Arsenal’s goalkeeper in the 2023/24 season has paved the way for Pickford to continue his stellar run. Nick Pope remains an alternative, but Pickford’s comfort with ball at feet ensures his probable selection.
Jordan Pickford’s England Statistics:
- Appearances: 58
- Goals Conceded: 42
- Clean Sheets: 28
Right-back: Kyle Walker
Club: Manchester City
The right-back slot seemed uncertain after the 2022 World Cup, but Kyle Walker’s resurgence at Manchester City has quashed doubts. Despite challenges from Reece James and Trent Alexander-Arnold, Walker’s speed and defensive prowess make him the safest choice. Kieran Trippier could challenge, yet Walker’s agility positions him as the optimal choice to thwart top-tier wingers.
Kyle Walker’s England Statistics:
- Appearances: 81
- Goals: 1
- Assists: 10
Centre-backs: John Stones and Harry Maguire
Club: Manchester City (Stones) and Manchester United (Maguire)
The defensive backbone comprises John Stones and Harry Maguire. Stones’ instrumental role in Manchester City’s triumphs cements his place, showcasing world-class passing and defensive intelligence. Maguire, despite club-level challenges, remains a stalwart for England. Their partnership, if maintained, ensures defensive solidity.
John Stones’ England Statistics:
- Appearances: 69
- Goals: 3
- Assists: 3
Harry Maguire’s England Statistics:
- Appearances: 62
- Goals: 7
- Assists: 2
Left-back: Luke Shaw
Club: Manchester United
Luke Shaw, though plagued by injury concerns, remains Southgate’s left-back of choice. His past contributions, including scoring in the previous European Championship final, underscore his significance. With alternatives facing availability issues, Shaw’s experience and attacking prowess make him the preferred selection.
Luke Shaw’s England Statistics:
- Appearances: 31
- Goals: 3
- Assists: 9
Holding Midfield: Declan Rice
Club: Arsenal
Declan Rice, the linchpin of the team, provides stability in midfield. A European trophy with West Ham in 2023 and seamless adaptation to Arsenal underscore his prowess. Competing with Kalvin Phillips, Rice’s consistent form edges him as the undisputed choice.
Declan Rice’s England Statistics:
- Appearances: 48
- Goals: 3
- Assists: 0
Central Midfielders: Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold
Club: Real Madrid (Bellingham) and Liverpool (Alexander-Arnold)
Jude Bellingham’s evolution into a ‘Galactico’ at Real Madrid speaks volumes. His partnership with the imperious Rice provides a dynamic midfield. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s midfield role, given his defensive vulnerabilities, is a point of discussion. However, his creative prowess and Walker’s support make him a potent midfield presence.
Jude Bellingham’s England Statistics:
- Appearances: 27
- Goals: 2
- Assists: 5
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s England Statistics:
- Appearances: 23
- Goals: 2
- Assists: 5
Wings and Forward: Phil Foden, Bukayo Saka, and Harry Kane
Club: Manchester City (Foden), Arsenal (Saka), and Bayern Munich (Kane)
Phil Foden’s versatility places him on the left wing, complemented by Bukayo Saka on the right. Foden’s form outshines competitors, while Saka’s emergence as a Premier League star solidifies his role. Leading the line is Harry Kane, Bayern Munich’s prolific striker, whose move has been a triumph. Kane’s goal-scoring record makes him the linchpin of England’s attack.
Phil Foden’s England Statistics:
- Appearances: 31
- Goals: 4
- Assists: 8
Bukayo Saka’s England Statistics:
- Appearances: 32
- Goals: 11
- Assists: 8
Harry Kane’s England Statistics:
- Appearances: 89
- Goals: 62
- Assists: 19