In recent years, England has been blessed with talented full-backs from various Premier League clubs. England has an incredible group of full-backs that made other countries jealous. But with the recent injury crisis, Gareth Southgate has been left with no other option than to make do with the available players.
Full-Backs Injury
The international friendly matches between Brazil and Belgium were supposed to decide his best men ahead of Euro 2024. Instead, the injury is destabilizing his team. Gareth Southgate is saying that he has never seen England dealing with so many injuries before.
The latest full-back to join the long list of injured fullbacks was Kyle Walker. The Manchester City defender captained the Three Lions in a 1-0 defeat to Brazil. He was substituted just a few minutes into the first half due to a hamstring injury.
The other injured full-back includes Luke Shaw, Kieran Trippier, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Reece James. England has had to use 14 different players at full-back or wing-back for various reasons in less than three years.
The Bigger Picture
Shaw has been able to start in only three games since the World Cup, and unfortunately, he is currently injured again.
Kieran Trippier is another option for the position. He is known to be part of the Southgate squad due to his outstanding performances for Newcastle in the past year and a half. His versatility to play at left-back adds to his value, and he brings experience and a dangerous set-piece delivery to the team.
Trent Alexander-Arnold is drifting from the full-back role due to his new position in his club. The Liverpool star might play a dual role in Southgate’s team. He can be used as a center midfielder and as a backup for Kyle Walker.
The captain of the Blues Reece James has Just 5 Premier League appearances, due to injury. James has started just once for England since the World Cup.
The Injury crisis is helpful in a way Gareth Southgate said. This is because it helps discover more players, and this situation will help us make a better decision in the future. Due to the unavailability of original full-backs opportunities have been given to other players like Joe Gomez and Man City’s young star Rico Lewis.
Conclusion
Who amongst the injured full-backs will make it back in time for Euros?? Although Kyle Walker’s injury doesn’t seem to be too serious. He is expected to be back and ready for the Arsenal clash. The other full-backs are currently undergoing rehabilitation and they progressing. Let’s see who makes it to Southgate’s squad.
Also Read: England Players to Go Nameless in Second Half Against Belgium in Alzheimer’s Awareness Initiative
About Author
Etijoro Emmanuel is a die-hard football fan from Nigeria. Since childhood, Emmanuel has been drawn to the sport. supporting his beloved team Chelsea, his love for football knows no boundaries. Emmanuel’s dedication and enthusiasm transcend geographical divides, connecting him with fellow fans around the globe. With his understanding, he covers in-depth match analysis, player evaluations, and captivating stories from world football. this resource has got you covered.
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