As England gears up for the Euro 2024 tournament in Germany, speculation mounts over who will make Gareth Southgate's final squad.
Expectations are high for the Euro 2020 runners-up, but with squad sizes reducing back to 23 players, competition is fiercer than ever.
The Battle for England XI Places
Key players like Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish find themselves in a tight spot. Rashford, despite being a veteran of England's last four major tournaments, has faced criticism for his performance at Manchester United, especially after his controversial actions in Belfast earlier this year.
Grealish, on the other hand, is also under scrutiny, as both players face significant competition from emerging talents.
Southgate has emphasised the importance of club performance in his selection criteria for this upcoming tournament, so the likes of Anthony Gordon, Cole Palmer, and Phil Foden are providing stiff competition, especially with their consistent performances and contributions to their respective teams.
Having said that, I'm of the belief that both Grealish and Rashford will be selected for the 23-man squad, should they remain fit.
Key Considerations for Selection
The England manager has made it clear that off-field behaviour will be considered alongside on-field performance.
This holistic approach to player selection underscores the importance of professionalism and dedication, both on and off the pitch.
Kalvin Phillips, despite his struggles for form and game time at West Ham, is still in contention, highlighting Southgate's willingness to back players he trusts to regain their best form.
Conversely, Mason Mount's chances seem slimmer due to his injury woes and inconsistent playing time at Manchester United.
England Euro 2024 Squad Predictions
As of writing (March 18th 2024), here are my predictions for who will be getting on the plane to Germany for Euro 2024:
Goalkeepers
Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale and Sam Johnstone.
Defenders
Kyle Walker, Kieran Trippier, John Stones, Harry Maguire, Joe Gomez and Luke Shaw.
Midfielders
Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson, Conor Gallagher, James Maddison and Cole Palmer.
Forwards
Harry Kane, Ollie Watkins, Bukayo Saka, Jarrod Bowen, Phil Foden, Marcus Rashford, Jack Grealish.
FAQs
Will Marcus Rashford and Jack Grealish be in the England Euro 2024 squad? Their inclusion depends on their performance and behaviour in the coming months, with stiff competition from emerging talents.
How many players will be selected for the Euro 2024 squad? The squad will consist of 23 players, down from 26 in the previous tournament.
What factors influence Gareth Southgate's selection? Southgate considers on-field performance, club form, player behaviour off the field, and the player's ability to contribute positively to the team dynamics.
Is Mason Greenwood being considered for the Euro 2024 squad? Currently, Southgate is not considering Greenwood for the Euro 2024 squad, focusing instead on players who have been part of the team's journey in recent years.
England 
