Gareth Southgate is set to announce a provisional England squad for next month’s rescheduled Euro 2020 later on today.
The manager had been expected to announce his final squad this afternoon, though is expected to opt for a larger provisional group of around 30 ahead of revealing his official tournament side.
With Manchester City and Chelsea set to face off in the Champions League final on Saturday, and Manchester United playing Villarrel in the Europa League final on Wednesday, Southgate has given himself a little extra breathing room in case any national players don’t come through those games unscathed.
Gareth Southgate will tomorrow name a provisional #EURO2020 squad, which will be trimmed down to 26 players on Tuesday 1 June.
— England (@England) May 24, 2021
Following the announcement, the #ThreeLions boss will speak to the media at 2pm. pic.twitter.com/NvNSrW2Imi
UEFA have allowed coaches to pick an extra three names ahead of next month’s competition, following the congested schedules most players have faced this campaign due to the pandemic.
What time will Southgate announce the England squad?
Southgate will reveal his initial picks at 1pm BST and is expected to announce his final 26-man squad on June 1.
The England manager will then address the media an hour later, at 2pm BST.
Question marks over usual starters
There are still concerns over two favourites of Southgate, with both Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson fighting to be fit in time for England’s first game on June 13.
However, with UEFA allowing coaches to name three more players than usual, Southgate may be willing to take a risk should they be available in the latter stages of the tournament.
The battle for right-back
England’s right-back position has been a hot topic for debate among pundits.
Trent Alexander-Arnold would have been a shoe-in, however an inconsistent club campaign has led many to believe he could miss out. After a strong showing this season, Kyle Walker could be favoured in the back line.
Kieran Trippier of course won the league with Atletico Madrid, and could fancy his chances of securing a spot in the national setup.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka is probably England’s best out-and-out defender, though his attacking ability has been called into question throughout the season and he is yet to make a senior appearance.
Reece James also has a valid shout for that spot.
Featured image credit: Getty
