England predicted lineup vs Slovakia – Euro 2024
Despite having topped Group C and booked a favourable last 16 tie with Slovakia, not many England supporters will be hopeful ahead of Sunday’s encounter.
Pre-tournament hopes have dissipated with each passing match as the Three Lions looked decidedly average during their first three outings across Germany. While they have not come under too much pressure defensively, a disjointed attacking unit and a negative tactical approach has hurt morale in England.
A clash with Slovakia, who finished third in Group E, would normally be an attractive proposition, but the pessimism surrounding England at present is palpable. Gareth Southgate has been crucified for his side’s performances and his team selection at the tournament, but the 53-year-old seldom gives in to external pressure.
He could well make alterations for England’s battle with Slovakia, especially having witnessed how difficult Belgium found life against them in a 1-0 defeat during the group stage, and those alterations may come in front of the defence.
Here is how England could line up for their last 16 clash at Euro 2024.
GK: Jordan Pickford – Two clean sheets and some strong saves during the group stages, Pickford has held up his end of the bargain. The England stopper is set to be busier as the tournament progresses.
RB: Kyle Walker – The Manchester City defender has not been immune to criticism at Euro 2024 but he has at least provided some attacking thrust down the right flank. He helped set up Harry Kane’s strike against Serbia with a powerful drive forward and there is very little chance that the more creative Trent Alexander-Arnold replaces him against Slovakia.
CB: John Stones – Given seven goals were scored in total in Group C, it’s fair to say that Stones hasn’t been tested too frequently this tournament. Slovakia’s front line is unlikely to scare the Man City star, however.
CB: Marc Guehi – England’s strongest performer at Euro 2024, and by quite some margin, Guehi has been brilliant at the back. The 23-year-old has been magnificent considering it’s his first major international tournament.
LB: Kieran Trippier – While Luke Shaw is closing in on a return, it may prove a big ask for the Manchester United defender to step straight back into the starting lineup after four months out of action. As a result, the much-maligned Trippier should retain his spot – if fit enough to feature.
CM: Kobbie Mainoo – Having been limited to substitute appearances, Mainoo could come in to partner Declan Rice in midfield. Experiments with Conor Gallagher and Alexander-Arnold have failed, with Mainoo deserving a chance from the off.
CM: Declan Rice – Finding his perfect partner in the double pivot has proven difficult, but it’s no mark against his name. If only England had Kalvin Phillips, eh?
RM: Bukayo Saka – One of the livelier members of England’s misfiring front line, we’re still waiting for Saka to explode at Euro 2024. He’s shown glimpses, however, helping set up the winning goal against Serbia in the opener.
AM: Jude Bellingham – After winning Player of the Tournament at the end of matchday one, Bellingham’s subsequent displays have been far more subdued. England need him to stand up tall in the knockout stages.
LM: Phil Foden – Brighter against Slovenia but ultimately still blunt, the Premier League Player of the Season is at genuine risk of losing his place in the side. Cole Palmer and Anthony Gordon are itching for an opportunity if Southgate pulls the trigger.
ST: Harry Kane – Few players have received more stick than England’s skipper, who – bar a goal against Denmark – has been ineffective up front. Offering very little in the number nine position, the Bayern Munich star has Ollie Watkins breathing down his neck.