The pressure is mounting on Gareth Southgate to assemble an England squad that can finally clinch a major tournament victory this summer. This task is more urgent than ever, considering the near misses in recent years that have left fans both hopeful and frustrated.
In the last European Championship, the Three Lions came agonizingly close to glory. They reached the final, only to suffer a heartbreaking defeat to Italy in a penalty shootout. The sting of that loss still lingers, serving as both a painful memory and a motivator for Southgate and his team.
Southgate’s tenure has seen notable successes, including a strong showing in the 2018 World Cup where England advanced to the semi-finals. However, despite a promising start against Croatia in that semi-final, the team ultimately faltered and was eliminated. These experiences highlight the fine margins that separate triumph from disappointment at the highest level of international football.
To surpass these past performances, Southgate faces the critical task of making astute decisions in his squad selection. The right blend of experience, youth, and form is essential if England is to finally break their long-standing tournament hoodoo.
One of Southgate’s decisions, according to The Athletic (subscription required), has already stirred significant debate even before the official squad announcement. Jordan Henderson, a player who epitomizes the leadership, composure, and tenacity Southgate prizes, has been dropped from the squad. This move is particularly striking given Henderson’s stature and influence within the team.
Henderson’s exclusion is a multifaceted decision. Despite his qualities as a calm and experienced midfielder, recent events have not played in his favor. His unsuccessful transfer to Saudi Arabia and Ajax’s disappointing season, which saw them finish a staggering 35 points behind PSV, have contributed to this outcome. Additionally, at 33 years old, Henderson’s age is a factor that cannot be ignored in the context of a high-paced tournament environment.
Amidst the shifting dynamics of squad selection, The Athletic also reports that Curtis Jones, Henderson’s former teammate at Liverpool, is poised for his first senior call-up. Jones has been a rising star over the past 12 to 18 months, and his inclusion reflects Southgate’s willingness to inject fresh talent into the squad. This decision signals a potential shift towards a younger, more dynamic England team as they gear up for the challenges ahead.
In conclusion, Gareth Southgate’s squad selection process is under intense scrutiny as he seeks to build a team capable of winning a major tournament this summer. The exclusion of Jordan Henderson and the potential inclusion of Curtis Jones underscore the delicate balance Southgate must strike between experience and emerging talent. The decisions he makes in the coming weeks will be pivotal in determining whether England can finally achieve the success their fans so fervently desire.