S Poddar
England’s Euro 2024 campaign has hit a snag with Kieran Trippier’s injury casting doubt over his availability for the last-16 match against Slovakia. This development forces coach Gareth Southgate to devise an alternative plan to address the team’s problematic left-back position.
The squad’s only natural left-back, Luke Shaw of Manchester United, has been sidelined since February due to a hamstring injury. Despite this, Southgate included Shaw in the 26-man squad, though he hasn’t played in the group-stage matches against Serbia, Denmark, and Slovenia.
Trippier has been a key player in all three group games. However, reports indicate that he missed another training session on Friday because of a calf injury, raising concerns about his participation on Sunday.
Initially, the only expected change for the knockout round was Kobbie Mainoo replacing Conor Gallagher. However, Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa is now being considered as a makeshift replacement for Trippier against Slovakia.
Konsa, who had a strong season with Villa, helping them secure Champions League qualification, is versatile but has not played as a left-back. Southgate seems poised to place his trust in Konsa over Liverpool’s Joe Gomez, who has some experience in the left-back role.
Shaw, fit enough to be on the bench against Slovenia, might see action as Southgate aims to accelerate his return to full fitness by giving him some minutes on the field.
England remains one of the favorites to win the Euro 2024 tournament, and fans are hopeful that Southgate’s adjustments will keep their championship hopes alive.
