England National Football Team Announces Squad for 2021 European Championships
The England national football team has officially announced their squad for the 2021 European Championships. The tournament, which was postponed from last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic, will take place from June 11 to July 11 across 12 cities in Europe.
The Squad
England manager Gareth Southgate has selected a 33-man provisional squad with some surprise inclusions and exclusions. The final group of 26 players will be announced on June 1, with three goalkeepers and 23 outfield players to be selected.
The goalkeepers selected are Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, and Sam Johnstone. The defensive options include Trent Alexander-Arnold, Ben Chilwell, Conor Coady, Reece James, Harry Maguire, Tyrone Mings, Luke Shaw, John Stones, Kieran Trippier, and Kyle Walker. The midfielders are Jude Bellingham, Jordan Henderson, Mason Mount, Kalvin Phillips, Declan Rice, and James Ward-Prowse. The attackers are Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Mason Greenwood, Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Jadon Sancho, and Raheem Sterling.
Analysis
The inclusion of four right-backs in the provisional squad is a telling sign of Southgate's tactical plan for the tournament. Alexander-Arnold, James, Trippier, and Walker can all play in that position, but it remains to be seen how Southgate will utilize their versatility.
The selection of 17-year-old Jude Bellingham shows Southgate's faith in the young players. Bellingham, who plays for Borussia Dortmund in Germany, has impressed in his first season and could provide a spark in midfield if given the chance.
Surprisingly, some players who were expected to make the squad, including Jesse Lingard and Eric Dier, were left out. However, Southgate has stated that they are still in consideration for the final 26-man squad.
Expectations
England is one of the favorites to win the tournament, which would be their first major international trophy since the 1966 World Cup. Southgate led England to the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup, and many believe that this squad could go even further.
The attacking options are particularly impressive, with Kane, Sterling, Grealish, and others capable of scoring goals against any opposition. The midfield and defense look solid as well, although injuries to Maguire and Henderson are a concern.
Conclusion
The England national football team has announced a strong squad for the 2021 European Championships. With a mix of experience and youth, they will look to go all the way and bring home their first major trophy in over 50 years. The final 26-man squad will be announced on June 1, and fans around the world will be eagerly anticipating the start of the tournament on June 11.