England coach Gareth Southgate may find some relief from his Euro 2024 squad selection challenges if UEFA reverts to 26-man rosters, reports Simon Peach, PA’s Chief Football Writer.
One of the prominent figures in this scenario is former Exeter City and Weston-super-Mare forward Ollie Watkins.
Teams have reverted to preparing for selections of 23 players this summer after being allowed larger squads to cope with the lingering impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
However, a return to 26 players is reportedly favored by the majority of coaches at a Euro 2024 workshop held on Monday. UEFA has indicated it will make a final decision in the coming weeks.
Past expanded selections allowed England manager Gareth Southgate to take calculated risks on the fitness of players like Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson at Euro 2020 and Kyle Walker and Kalvin Phillips at the 2022 World Cup as they recovered from injuries.
Here are some potential beneficiaries if the squad size returns to 26:
Ollie Watkins/Ivan Toney:
England’s main striker, Harry Kane, is expected to lead the line, but the backup role is open. It could be contested between Aston Villa’s Watkins and Brentford’s Toney.
Luke Shaw:
Despite injuries, Shaw’s pivotal role in recent tournaments makes him a likely inclusion if the squad is expanded, especially given his expected return to fitness.
Reece James:
With limited appearances this season due to injury, an expanded squad might offer Chelsea’s James a chance to make the cut, especially considering his recent fitness concerns.
Jack Grealish/Marcus Rashford:
Despite increased competition for places, both Grealish and Rashford could secure spots in an expanded squad due to their experience and talent.
Mason Mount:
Although he has faced injury setbacks, Mount’s versatility and Southgate’s admiration for him could see him included in an enlarged squad, especially with his potential return to form at Manchester United.