England faces a crucial decision regarding Luke Shaw as Gareth Southgate finalizes his squad for tonight’s Euro 2024 semi-final against the Netherlands. The Three Lions, aiming to make history, are one win away from reaching their first-ever major final on foreign soil. This marks their third semi-final in the last four tournaments.
Shaw made a promising return from his hamstring injury, playing nearly 45 minutes as a substitute in the dramatic quarter-final win over Switzerland. He performed well without any setbacks, but despite Shaw’s readiness to start, Southgate is leaning towards keeping Kieran Trippier in the lineup due to his consistent form throughout the tournament.
Another key decision for Southgate is in defense, where Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is available again after serving a suspension. Guehi is expected to replace Ezri Konsa, who delivered a commendable performance against the Swiss. Southgate must choose between maintaining the back three formation, which worked well against Switzerland, or switching to a back four to counter the Dutch system.
With all 26 players set to train on the eve of the game and no new injury concerns, Southgate’s choices will be pivotal. The predicted England lineup suggests a 3-4-2-1 formation, featuring Pickford in goal, a defensive trio of Walker, Stones, and Guehi, with Saka and Trippier as wing-backs.
Mainoo and Rice are likely to control the midfield, while Foden and Bellingham support captain Harry Kane upfront. Southgate’s final decisions will shape their quest for a historic final berth.
Predicted England XI (3-4-2-1): Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Trippier; Foden, Bellingham; Kane
