According to Sky Sports journalist Rob Dorsett, England manager Gareth Southgate is significantly worried about the form of six of his players, with Jude Bellingham and captain Harry Kane among them.
As one of the favorites for the 2024 European Championship, England’s path to the tournament hasn’t been smooth, following a recent defeat to Iceland. Dorsett points out that a combination of factors has left the team below its optimal level.
Tripier and Luke Shaw are also causing concern for Southgate. Players like Kane, Luke Shaw, Stones, and Trippier have recently returned from injuries, while Bellingham joined the camp later due to his involvement in Real Madrid’s Champions League final. Dorsett emphasizes that these players’ conditions, along with Harry Maguire’s absence through injury, have Southgate “very concerned.”
In his report, Dorsett said, “The team seems under-prepared, but this isn’t a reflection on the coach or players; it’s due to injuries and key players not being fully match-fit. Take Kane, for instance, who looks less sharp and less than 100%, possibly because of the back issue that kept him out of Bayern’s last three matches. He appears short of training, still dealing with the aftereffects of his back treatment. This is a major concern, as England’s title aspirations rely heavily on Kane being at his best. Harry Maguire’s unfortunate absence due to a calf injury is another significant blow.”
“John Stones traveled to Germany but isn’t at his peak, having made only one Premier League appearance since mid-March and suffering an ankle issue in a recent friendly. Luke Shaw hasn’t played since February and might not feature until the knockout stages. Kieran Trippier’s form is also questionable, while Bellingham had a break after the Champions League final and seems to be physically challenged upon his return to the squad this weekend.”
“These are the backbone of the England team, and their performances will be crucial for a deep run in the competition. However, many of them are showing inconsistency, which is worrying. With England winning only one of their last five games, the build-up doesn’t paint a promising picture.”
England will kick off their 2024 Euro campaign on June 16 against Serbia, followed by matches against Denmark on June 20 and Slovenia on June 25.