England’s head coach, Gareth Southgate, is currently dealing with the most severe injury situation he has faced in his seven and a half years in this position. He has stated that it is highly unlikely for Harry Kane to participate in the upcoming international break due to his injury.
Prior to Euro 2024, England’s preparations are intensifying as they prepare to face Brazil and Belgium at Wembley. However, worries about player fitness prevent them from fielding their strongest lineup. Manager Southgate, who recently weighed in on the controversy surrounding Nike’s multi-colored St. George’s Cross flag on the new kit, was unable to include a number of key players in his squad last week. These selection issues are becoming more pressing as they gear up for a friendly match against Brazil on Saturday night.
The defensive line was the biggest worry with Reece James, Luke Shaw, Levi Colwill and Kieran Trippier unable to play. However, other positions are also becoming concerning. Midfielder Jordan Henderson will be absent for the Brazil match and there are gaps in the offensive line. Bukayo Saka left the team due to a muscle issue, Cole Palmer is racing against time to recover for the Belgium game, and Kane is struggling with an injured ankle.
The situation is hardly ideal for Southgate given that this is England’s final camp before June. He rated Kane’s chances of featuring against Belgium as “extremely doubtful” and considered whether the increasing demands on players are affecting availability.
“Everyone wants simple solutions to complex problems,” he said. “Some players have just been unfortunate. Kane’s injury was when he crashed into the net at the weekend and it’s forced the mechanism with his ankle. He’s had a winter break and he’s not playing in our league.
Several players have experienced injury streaks, and some may have returned to playing too soon after those injuries. The intensity and duration of the games may have played a part in these issues. Regardless, our team has a significant number of players currently unavailable for tomorrow’s game, the most we’ve had so far with 40 players on our roster.
Southgate’s attention is on the clubs that are planning post-season tours. A few of his players will take long flights when Newcastle and Tottenham travel to Australia for an exhibition match just three days after the conclusion of the Premier League season.
“It’s becoming increasingly common,” stated Southgate. “Why? The implementation of financial fair play requires clubs to be self-sufficient. The typical method for achieving this is by playing more matches. Is this beneficial for us in terms of preparation? No.”
“We anticipate having players participating in the FA Cup, and potentially the Champions League final and other European finals. As a team, we are accustomed to this type of preparation. We have previously had to prepare in five days prior to traveling to Qatar.”
Conor Gallagher could potentially replace Henderson in midfield, but he now faces competition from Kobbie Mainoo. The 18-year-old midfielder from Manchester United recently received his first call-up.
“We appreciate him as a player,” Southgate expressed. “We considered his age and wanted to ensure he takes the necessary steps at the appropriate time. However, with Henderson’s recent injuries, he is the next player in line. He has made a positive impact on us.”
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Southgate was confused by the replacement of the traditional red and white flag with a new design on the collar of the latest England jersey, which is priced at £124.99. Nike and the Football Association have been harshly criticized for the high cost and the colors of the flag.
According to Southgate, the only true representation of the St. George’s flag is a white background with a red cross. Other designs, like the one currently featured on the England shirt, could be seen as a unique artistic choice, possibly inspired by artists like Banksy or Reuben Dangoor. Ultimately, what truly holds importance on the shirt is the Three Lions emblem. As a proud patriot, Southgate believes that St. George’s Day should be celebrated more than it currently is.
Some individuals believe that the flag of St George should not be altered, as changing it would mean it is no longer the flag of St George.
“I am slightly confused about that element. While they can create a unique design, it cannot be considered the flag of St George because it is something different.”
Southgate, whose agreement ends in December, declined to address speculations that he might take over from Erik ten Hag at Manchester United this season and emphasized that he will not choose his next step until after the Euros.
He stated, “I hold the position of England manager and my sole responsibility is to strive for victory in the European Championship. Manchester United already has a manager and it would be impolite to discuss any speculation. As president of the LMA, I have no comments to make.”
Southgate stated that he would not engage in any contract discussions prior to proving himself at the Euros, as it would be questioned by others. He also clarified that he has never spoken to anyone else while in his current position, which he has held for eight years.
Source: theguardian.com
